Shanti Achanta

Shanti is a Registered Counsellor with the Singapore Association for Counselling (SAC), bringing over a decade of experience in aiding young adults, individuals, couples, and families within diverse cultural settings.

Her career is marked by significant roles, including her previous position as the Associate Dean (Education) at James Cook University, Singapore. In this role, Shanti was deeply involved in the Master’s program in Counselling, contributing as an educator and mentor to counselling interns. Her professional journey spans working with Voluntary Welfare Organizations, Family Service Centres, her private practice, and offering counselling support at an international university in Singapore.

Shanti’s areas of expertise encompass parenting, relationships, marriage, cultural adjustment, and dealing with grief (loss and trauma). In her work with couples, she focuses on understanding individual differences, such as upbringing, financial issues, and parenting styles, to facilitate common goals, enhance communication, and foster reconnection. Additionally, she provides support during transitions following separation where necessary.

Academically, Shanti holds a Master’s Degree in Guidance & Counselling from James Cook University, Singapore (2005), and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology. She is a Certified Reality Therapist with the William Glasser Institute, Singapore, and has achieved Level 2 certification in Satir’s Systemic Family Therapy. Her therapeutic methodology is primarily Systemic, integrating techniques from Mindfulness, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Choice Theory/Reality Therapy (CTRT). She views her role in the counselling process as a guiding presence, aiding clients in maintaining balance, forging meaningful relationships, and restoring well-being in their personal, social, and professional lives.

Inspired by Virginia Satir’s quote, “Peace within, peace between and peace among,” Shanti emphasizes the importance of inner and relational peace in her practice. Her multicultural background, having lived in India, Eastern Europe, and Singapore, enables her to empathetically relate to the challenges of expatriate life. She is proficient in English, Hindi, and Telugu, further enhancing her ability to connect with a diverse clientele.