Our Founder
Angel Chan
M.Couns, Dip Art Therapy, B.Sc
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Counsellor and Art Therapist
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Dedicated Advocate for Women’s Rights and Policy Development
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Pioneered support initiatives for disadvantaged women
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Advanced women's policy development and representations at International Forums
My Story
"Hello, I'm Angel, the founder of WOODS. My path to creating WOODS was deeply influenced by my commitment to support people from all walks of life and advocate for their rights. It's more than just a place—it's a manifestation of my lifelong dedication to offering guidance and care at every stage of life's journey. Throughout my career in both government and social sectors, where I've held numerous leadership positions and championed gender equality, I've become even more passionate and committed to making a difference. My experiences have honed my skills and strengthened my resolve.
My last corporate role was the CEO of the Singapore Council of Women's Organisations (SCWO). At SCWO, in addition to spearheading various initiatives to support women and girls, I also counselled women who were navigating all forms of emotional challenges under varied circumstances. The challenges included trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, fear and loneliness. From my hands-on counselling work, the power and impact of each session have deeply affirmed my belief in the transformative nature of counselling. It’s about fostering a safe and supportive space where individuals feel empowered to face their challenges and uncover their inner strength.
The introduction of Integrated Art Therapy in my practice has been nothing short of revolutionary. Witnessing clients articulate their feelings through art has been profoundly moving, helping to break down barriers and enable deep, meaningful emotional journeys.
While my earlier efforts were largely dedicated to supporting women and girls, WOODS is founded on the principles of inclusivity and welcomes everyone. With the integration of Art Therapy, we strive to engage the community, raise mental health awareness, and challenge existing stigmas surrounding seeking therapy for mental wellness. At WOODS, our mission is to create a nurturing environment where everyone can find the support they need and feel empowered as they navigate their path to well-being."
Qualifications and Certifications
Angel holds a Masters Degree in Counselling from Monash University. She is currently a Provisional Clinical Member with the Singapore Association for Counselling. She is also trained in Art Therapy from the College for Educational and Clinical Art Therapy (Australia), and holds a membership with the Australian Community Counselling Association.
