Becoming a Licensed Therapist in Malaysia

Introduction

What does it really take to become a licensed therapist in Malaysia — and how can aspiring counsellors start their journey with clarity and confidence?

In this episode of the Let’s Talk About It Podcast by SafeTalk, host Shavkat sits down with Derrick Ching, a practising therapist and mentor who guides new counsellors through the realities of entering the profession. Derrick shares his personal path into counselling, breaks down the requirements set by the Lembaga Kaunselor Malaysia (LKM), and offers practical advice on education, licensing, CPD, and building a sustainable career in mental health.

Guest Introduction

Derrick Ching is a Malaysian therapist known for helping aspiring counsellors navigate their academic and professional pathways. Beyond his clinical work, he actively mentors new therapists, supports students preparing for their KBPA licensing exams, and creates resources to simplify the often confusing process of starting a career in counselling. His grounded approach and commitment to professional growth make him a trusted figure among early-career practitioners.

Connect with Derrick and explore his resources:

Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/withderrick.c

KBPA Prep Kit: https://symponiainstitute.my.canva.site/kbpa-prep-kit-derrick

Resource Drive: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1_Qj9X99bg5wuUH98BOntYmdqIpRpR9IO/view

Key Discussion Points

Derrick’s Path Into Counselling
Derrick didn’t start out planning to become a therapist. He recalls being the friend people naturally turned to – and only later realised that counselling could be a formal profession. His journey highlights how many therapists begin: with empathy, curiosity, and a desire to be useful to others. That early instinct eventually led him to pursue a counselling degree and formal training.
How to Begin Your Journey as a Therapist
Aspiring therapists often struggle to find clear information about where to start. Derrick breaks this down simply:
- Choose an LKM-accredited counselling programme.
- Complete the required practicum and internship hours (often more than 700).
- Build foundational skills in communication, ethics, and self-awareness.
- Start preparing early by exploring the profession, shadowing therapists, or joining student groups.
- This early groundwork helps students transition from curiosity to structured training with confidence.
Understanding LKM, KB, and PA
Many people notice “KB” and “PA” beside a counsellor’s name — but few understand what these designations mean. Derrick explains that:
- LKM regulates and protects the counselling profession in Malaysia.
- KB (Kaunselor Berdaftar) indicates that a counsellor is officially registered.
- PA (Perakuan Amalan) is the annual practising certificate that must be renewed.
  These credentials ensure that therapists meet ethical, training, and supervision standards — offering safety and assurance to clients seeking support.
Licensing Requirements and the Road to KBPA
To become a licensed counsellor, graduates must complete an accredited degree, fulfil practicum requirements, and apply to LKM for their KBPA license. Derrick clarifies that the process can feel intimidating, but accessing the right guidance — from mentors, senior counsellors, or structured prep resources — can make it much more manageable.
The Role of Continuous Professional Development (CPD)
These credentials ensure that therapists meet ethical, training, and supervision standards — offering safety and assurance to clients seeking support.
Why Derrick Supports New Therapists
Derrick also shares why he invests so much time in helping students and early-career practitioners. He believes that clear guidance, mentorship, and transparent information can reduce confusion, improve quality of care, and create a stronger, healthier counselling community in Malaysia. His upcoming CPD Breakdown Guide for Counsellors reflects this mission to simplify the professional journey for others.

Conclusion

Becoming a licensed therapist in Malaysia involves more than completing a degree — it’s a journey of self-development, professional responsibility, and ongoing growth. Derrick’s insights offer a grounded, realistic roadmap for anyone considering counselling as a career, while reminding practising therapists of the importance of mentorship and continuous learning.

Listen to the Full Episode

🎙️The Let’s Talk About It Podcast by SafeTalk dives into mental health topics that aren’t often discussed. Join us for candid conversations with experts and individuals with lived experiences.