Rhoda Despabiladeras, MD

Senior Counsellor

Professional Qualifications

Fellow, Philippine Psychiatric Association

Diplomate, Philippine Board of Psychiatry

Psychodynamic Psychotherapist

General Adult Psychiatry Specialist

Member of Hong Kong Professional Counselling Association (HKPCA)

About Rhoda

Rhoda is a Senior Counsellor with Oasis Hong Kong Centre for Counselling and Psychotherapy. Previously, Rhoda practiced as a psychiatrist for almost three decades before transitioning into counselling work. Her background in psychiatry has greatly informed and enriched her practice as a counsellor, providing a greater insight into the mind and body connection. Through her work among adults from different backgrounds and nationalities in China and Hong Kong, Rhoda finds fulfilment witnessing clients make strides and breakthroughs in their individual lives. She specialises in psychodynamic psychotherapy for adults, couples, and adolescents.

From Rhoda:

“I work along the framework that the dynamic mind is in constant motion. Fueled by nature and nurture, the mind continuously adapts in response to an everchanging environment. Through our journey of adaptation, we unknowingly form patterns of thinking, feeling and behaviors that were meant to be self-preserving but ends up causing us pain and discomfort, which could express itself in anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties just to name a few. These maladaptive ways of thinking, feeling and behaving can be modified if given the time, patience and opportunity to be brought to awareness and be understood. Awareness and understanding of these patterns can only be made under a foundation of a trusting relationship. Front and center of what we will do is embarking and building on a strong trusting relationship where you will feel safe, secure and understood. As we continue on building this trusting relationship, we are going to learn more about you and understand the reasons behind the pain and discomfort that you feel. Greater awareness allows for greater understanding and compassion towards the self and a stronger motivation to affect change.

Let us embark on this journey together, you are not alone. The dynamic mind that is constantly in motion has the capacity to change its course towards growth and healing.”