Dr Joan Khng's work is strongly informed by the Satir Transformational Systemic Therapy Model, with a particular interest in helping individuals develop greater self-awareness, reconnect with their inner resources, strengthen their sense of self and make healthier and more congruent choices.
She holds a PhD in Social Work and a Master of Philosophy (Social Work), alongside extensive specialist training in the Satir Model. Her Satir-related qualifications include a Specialist Diploma in Satir's Systemic Transformational Therapy Model, Satir Training for Trainers (T4T) certification, and a certificate in Group Work (Satir).
She has also undertaken professional training in Narrative Therapy, Choice Theory/Reality Therapy, Solution-Oriented Counselling, Claywork and Artistic Therapy, as well as adult learning and professional practice. She holds a Graduate Certificate in Narrative Therapy, Advanced Certificate in Learning and Performance (ACLP), and PPP3 (PARS Advanced Practitioner) certification.
Her extensive training allows her to integrate different therapeutic and learning approaches while maintaining the Satir Model as a central foundation of her practice.
As a Registered Social Worker in private practice, Joan supports children, adolescents, adults, and families through a wide range of emotional and life challenges. Her areas of practice include anxiety and depression, stress management, relationship difficulties, trauma recovery, self-esteem, meaning-making, and personal growth. She is passionate about helping clients heal, build resilience, deepen self-awareness, and navigate life's transitions with confidence. She is dedicated to provide a safe space for discovery, healing and growth.
Joan is also qualified in Advance Care Planning (ACP) Facilitation and is an ASIST (Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training) practitioner, equipping her to support individuals and families through crisis, serious illness, and end-of-life planning with compassion and professionalism.
Journals
Khng, J. (2020): Managing the impact of COVID-19 on cancer survivors in Singapore, Asia Pacific Journal of Social Work and Development, DOI:10.1080/02185385.2020.1859408
Balasubramanian, S. & Khng, J.N.W. (2018). Conquering the Enigmatic Fear of Recurrence in the Breast Cancer Care Continuum. Iris Journal of Nursing & Care, 1 (1), 1-3. doi: 10.33552/IJNC.2018.01.000501
Khng, J. N. W., Woo, I. M. H., & Fan, G. (2016). Experiential group work for cancer patients shaped by experiences of participants during group intervention. Future Oncology, 12(24), 2817-2822. doi:10.2217/fon-2016-0301 (2015 impact factor 2.129).
Fan, G. & Khng, N.W.J. (2014). The Futures of the Singapore Association of Social Workers: An analysis using CLA and the Futures Triangle. Foresight, 16 (4), 329-343.
Fan, G. & Khng, N.W.J. (2014). Using Causal Layered Analysis to Understand the Alliance between Social Workers with Their Professional Association. Journal of Future Studies, 18 (4), 59-75.
Khng, N.W.J., & Ow, R. (2009). Getting Out: Factors that Influenced Abused Wives’ Decisions to Leave their Abusive Spousal Relationships. Families in Society: The Journal of Contemporary Social Services. 90 (2), 153-161.
Book chapter:
Ow, R., & Khng, J. N. W. (2016). Towards a resilience-focused approach for advancing children and youth services in Singapore. In R. Ow & J. N. W. Khng (Eds.), Social work with children and youth in Singapore: a resilience perspective (pp. 1-23). Singapore: Pearson.
Ow, R., & Khng, J. N. W. (2016). Reflections on resilience-focused social work practice and policy in working with children and youth. In R. Ow & J. N. W. Khng (Eds.), Social work with children and youth in Singapore: a resilience perspective (pp. 177-186). Singapore: Pearson.
Edited book:
Ow, R., & Khng, J. N. W. (2016). Social work with children and youth in Singapore: A resilience perspective. Singapore: Pearson.