Who we are
About us
William Glasser Institute Singapore (WGI(S)) is a non-profit professional organisation dedicated to advancing Choice Theory psychology and Reality Therapy in Singapore. Since its beginnings, WGI(S) has served as a learning community for professionals, educators, parents, and helping practitioners who are committed to fostering responsibility, healthy relationships, and meaningful change—within themselves and the communities they serve.
Our journey reflects a steady commitment to grounding Choice Theory in real-world practice across diverse settings, guided by both international thought leaders and dedicated local pioneers.
Vision
Leading the world with Choice Theory Psychology
Mission
The mission of WGI(S) is to promote and teach Choice Theory psychology and its applications using Reality Therapy and Lead Management, as an effective, empowering, socially responsible and practical approach that can help people lead satisfying lives.
Our Story
1989
Laying the Foundation
- Dr Robert Wubbolding, Ed.D. introduced Reality Therapy to Singapore, planting the early seeds of Choice Theory practice.
- His visits and training efforts throughout the 1990s led to the first group of locally certified Reality Therapy practitioners in 1994.
1991–1993
Local Leadership & International Faculty
- Sister Elizabeth Tham and Dr Clare Ong became the first two Singaporeans certified in Reality Therapy, contributing to local training, supervision and advancement for Choice Theory and related disciplines.
1994
A Defining Milestone
- Dr William Glasser, founder of Choice Theory and Reality Therapy, made his first visit to Singapore.
- He addressed an audience of 500 participants and presented certificates to Singapore’s first Choice Theory/Reality Therapy graduates included professionals from diverse fields such as medicine, social work, and education.
1996
Formalising the Community
- The Association for Reality Therapy was established by local pioneers Sister Elizabeth Tham, Irene Loi, and Seng Boon Kheng.
- This marked the start of a structured, community-based effort to grow Choice Theory and Reality Therapy in Singapore.
2001
Expanding Professional Reach
- Dr Glasser returned to Singapore to deliver further talks and training. His engagement included sessions for medical practitioners at Tan Tock Seng Hospital, extending Choice Theory into healthcare settings.
- This visit helped strengthen local engagement and deepen professional interest in Choice Theory and Reality Therapy
2006–2009
Transformational Work in Changi Prison
- Choice Theory and Reality Therapy were introduced into Changi Prison, beginning with the training of prison counsellors.
- Under the leadership of Sister Elizabeth Tham, the programme expanded to include all prison counsellors, supported by volunteer-led practice and supervision.
2006
Becoming William Glasser Institute Singapore
- The organisation was renamed William Glasser Institute Singapore (WGI(S)).
- This reflected a clearer identity and formal alignment with the global William Glasser International network.
2016
Deepening Practice and Impact
- Dr Robert Wubbolding returned to Singapore to conduct a series of impactful workshops, helping professionals, parents, educators, and CTRT practitioners, strengthening the shift from external control to internal motivation.
- Participants gained practical tools for more effective communication, relationship-building, and the real-world application of Choice Theory principles across personal and professional contexts.
Today
Impact Across Society
- WGI(S) is supported by 3 active Senior Faculty and 6 Basic Instructors and Practicum Supervisors.
- To date, more than 3,000 individuals have been trained and over 400 practitioners certified, contributing to the application of Choice Theory and Reality Therapy across education, counselling, healthcare, correctional services, families, and the wider community in Singapore.