In Singapore, behaviour therapists help children build social, emotional, and learning skills while supporting them in managing challenges. At The Grounds, we take a holistic, child-friendly approach—using speech therapy, occupational therapy, educational psychology, and early intervention programme—tailored to each child’s needs. At the Grounds, we firmly believe that meaningful connection and secure attachment are the foundation to lasting behavioural changes. Unlike other approaches that solely focus on behaviours as the problem, we look deeper – understanding what drives it. The Grounds provides personalised support to help children succeed and guide parents every step of the way, in a safe and supportive environment.
What Is a Behaviour Therapist—and Is It Always ABA?
Many parents searching for “behaviour therapist in Singapore” are unsure what it actually means. Behaviour therapy isn’t just ABA—it can include different approaches depending on a child’s needs. Knowing the options helps parents choose the right support for their child.
Common Behaviour Therapy Approaches
Behaviour therapists may use a range of strategies depending on a child’s goals, challenges, and learning style. Some common approaches include:
- Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) – CBT helps children identify and challenge negative thought patterns that affect their behaviour. It supports them in building healthier thinking and coping strategies. It is most often used by Psychologists who are trained in this area. At The Grounds, we adapt our approach to each child’s developmental level and learning style, integrating play and creative techniques to make therapy accessible and engaging for all ages. CBT is also often used as part of a multi-prong approach to targeting stuttering.
- Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) – ABA uses positive reinforcement to increase helpful behaviours and reduce those that interfere with learning or social interaction. It is especially effective for children with autism or developmental conditions. While it’s common in Singapore, The Grounds does not offer ABA, as we believe in supporting the child holistically rather than focusing on behavioural compliance.
- Exposure Therapy – This approach helps children gradually face their fears in a safe, structured way. It’s often used to reduce anxiety and avoidance behaviours.
- Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) – DBT blends CBT with mindfulness techniques to help children manage strong emotions and improve relationships. It’s particularly helpful for older children or teens with emotional regulation difficulties. At The Grounds, rather than relying on strict protocols, we prioritise building safe, trusting relationships that help children explore and regulate their emotions in a way that feels natural and empowering.
- Behaviour Modification – This method uses clear rewards and consequences to encourage positive behaviour. It’s commonly used at home or in school settings. At The Grounds, we look beyond the surface and address the root causes—such as sensory challenges or unmet communication needs.
- Functional Behaviour Assessment (FBA) – FBA looks at the “why” behind challenging behaviours by examining triggers and consequences. It helps create effective, personalized intervention plans.
- Social Skills Training – This therapy teaches children how to communicate and interact more effectively with others. It often involves role-playing, group activities, and guided practice in social situations.
The Grounds’ Approach:
Instead of ABA or strict behaviour plans, we help children regulate their behaviour through play-based therapies and family-centered support. Our team includes speech therapists, occupational therapists, educational therapists, and psychologists who collaborate to address sensory, communication, and emotional needs. It is worthy to note here that ‘ABA therapists’ are not regulated in Singapore unlike Allied Health Professionals who hold professional licenses to uphold therapy principles and strictly follow a ‘Code of Conduct’.1
Behavioural Challenges We Often See in Children
It’s completely natural for parents to feel concerned when their child has frequent outbursts, struggles with following instructions, or finds social situations difficult. These challenges are more common than many realise—and with the right support, children can learn skills to navigate them with confidence and care.
Common concerns include:
- Tantrums or meltdowns during transitions
- Difficulty coping with frustration or disappointment
- Impulsivity or hyperactivity
- Struggles with turn-taking or peer interaction
- Refusing tasks or avoidance behaviours
- Sensory-related behaviours like crashing or stimming
Who Supports Behaviour at The Grounds?
At The Grounds, we believe behaviour is never “just behaviour”—it’s communication. Rather than relying on a single behaviour therapist, we bring together a team of licensed professionals who work collaboratively to understand each child’s unique needs. By combining expertise across disciplines, we support behaviour in a way that’s holistic, child-led, and rooted in compassion.
How We Support Behaviour Without Using ABA
It’s completely understandable for parents to seek clear strategies when their child is struggling with big emotions or challenging behaviours. While some clinics use rewards-based approaches like Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) to shape behaviour, The Grounds takes a different path—one rooted in connection, not compliance.
We believe that lasting behavioural change happens when a child feels safe, understood, and supported in their development—not when they’re trained to perform certain behaviours. Instead of relying on behaviour charts or external reinforcements, we focus on:
- Child-led, strengths-based methods that honour each child’s interests, abilities, and pace of growth.
- Collaborative family involvement to ensure support is consistent, respectful, and grounded in your child’s real-life context.
- Sensory and emotional regulation to help children understand and manage their bodies and feelings in a way that feels empowering.
- Functional communication and social learning so children can express themselves and build meaningful relationships—skills that naturally reduce frustration and challenging behaviours.
At The Grounds, we support the whole child—not just the behaviour. Our approach is gentle, responsive, and rooted in the belief that every child deserves to be heard, not just managed. Intrinsic motivations as such reap longer-term benefits.
Key Services That Support Behaviour at The Grounds
Behavioural growth is often supported through a combination of developmental, emotional, and communication-based therapies. At The Grounds, we offer a range of integrated services to meet your child’s unique needs in a warm and supportive environment.
- Speech Therapy
Helps children develop the communication skills they need to express their feelings, reduce frustration, and navigate social situations with confidence.
- Occupational Therapy
Supports sensory processing, motor skills, and emotional regulation—key foundations for helping children manage behaviour during transitions, tasks, and everyday routines.
- Early Intervention Programme
Offers holistic, play-based support for younger children, focusing on social-emotional skills, communication, attention, and self-regulation in a group or 1:1 setting.
- Educational Therapy
Addresses learning and attention challenges that may be contributing to behavioural struggles, and builds the executive functioning and emotional tools needed for classroom success.
- Autism Assessments
Provides a clear, compassionate understanding of your child’s developmental profile—helping guide the right supports for communication, behaviour, and social growth.
When Should You Seek Behaviour Support for Your Child?
It’s much better to seek support early—long before things feel “serious.” Early guidance can make a big difference in helping your child feel more understood, confident, and connected at home, in school, and with peers.
Common signs it may be time to seek help
- You feel unsure how to respond to your child’s big emotions
- Their behaviour is affecting friendships or family dynamics
- Teachers are concerned about classroom participation or focus
- Sensory issues or transitions are leading to frequent meltdowns
- It does not matter if you cannot put your finger on it. Sometimes, gut feel is all you need to seek clarifications. After all, we are the ones who are supposed to change your worries into workable plans.
Reaching out doesn’t mean something is wrong—it simply means you’re ready to support your child with more tools and understanding.
Frequently Asked Questions About Behaviour Therapy in Singapore
Parents often have questions about behavioural support—what it involves, who provides it, and how different professionals work together. Here are some common questions we hear at The Grounds:
What does a behavioural therapist do?
A behavioural therapist helps children develop skills to manage emotions, improve social interactions, and reduce behaviours that may get in the way of learning or daily life. They use evidence-based techniques to support emotional regulation, communication, and problem-solving.
What is the difference between a therapist and a behaviourist?
A therapist may have training in psychology, speech therapy, occupational therapy, or education, and often supports the child holistically—including emotional, sensory, and social needs. A behaviourist, particularly in ABA, tends to focus more narrowly on observable behaviours and often uses reinforcement strategies to increase or decrease specific actions.
What is the difference between a psychologist and a behavioural therapist?
A psychologist is trained in mental health and child development, and can assess emotional, cognitive, and behavioural patterns in depth. A behavioural therapist may focus more on day-to-day support strategies for managing behaviour, but many psychologists also provide this as part of their work.
Does The Grounds offer ABA therapy?
No, The Grounds Therapy does not offer Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA). Instead, we take a relationship-based, child-led approach that focuses on emotional regulation, communication, sensory needs, and family collaboration—prioritising connection over compliance.
Can my child see multiple therapists for different needs?
Yes. In fact, many children benefit from a team approach. At The Grounds, speech therapists, occupational therapists, psychologists, and educational therapists work closely together to provide consistent, integrated support tailored to your child’s unique profile.
Ready to Support Your Child’s Growth?
You don’t have to face your child’s behavioural challenges alone—support is available, and help starts with understanding. At The Grounds, our multidisciplinary team is here to listen, guide, and create a personalized plan that fits your child’s unique needs. Reach out to us today to discover how we can walk alongside you and your family on this journey.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Chan Mee Yee, M.Ed. (Child Psychology, UCSI), is an Educational Therapist at The Grounds. She believes every child has unique strengths and potential, and with love, patience, and acceptance, she empowers her students to grow in confidence and independence while nurturing the beauty of their spirit.
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FOOTNOTE
1 https://www.ahpc.gov.sg/for-professionals/regulations-guidelines-and-circulars