Nurturing Potential: Early Intervention and Experiential Learning at Special Children Society of Ampang

The collaboration between Taylor’s University Master of Clinical Psychology programme and The Special Children Society of Ampang (SCSOA) commenced in 2025 as part of the Clinical Practicum and Seminars I training component. Established in 1999, SCSOA is a non-profit organisation that provides a learning and support centre for children and adolescents with diverse disabilities, making it an ideal partner for this initiative.

The outreach programme was first initiated in June 2025 by trainee clinical psychologist Justin Leo Dorairaj, who established the partnership to provide trainees with exposure to community-based work with children with developmental needs. The initiative forms part of the mobile clinic efforts under HEART Psychological Services, which aim to extend psychological support to community partners while offering trainees meaningful, real-world clinical experience. Since its inception, trainees have been visiting the centre weekly to provide support and gain practical learning experience.

Students involved in the programme include Justin Leo Dorairaj, Amanda Denise Sammy, Koay Zhi Xian, Zachary Yap U-Keet, Ooi Min Xuan, Adrian Noris, Ibthihal Faatin Hassan, Adibah Binti Aminuddin, Laavanya a/p Sashi Kumar, Raggam, Jumana Shaher, Lee Thean Elaine, Samantha Ng Hui Li, Siow Jing Wen, Nicholas Kong Pang Lik, Lim Shin Tung, Ng Ai Wei, Ong Yan Thung, Mariam Khadeeja Noorjehan Azeez, Sandra Natasha, Poon Celine, Chong Zhen Yu, Lee Kai Chern, and Izz Shahafiz Bin Helmi Johan.

At SCSOA, trainee clinical psychologists primarily work with children aged 4 to 7 as part of the early intervention programme. They provide one-on-one support focusing on behavioural development, task initiation, and improving sitting tolerance during structured activities. Additionally, trainees assist teachers in classroom settings, helping children adapt to structured learning environments and promoting positive social interactions with peers.

The experience has proven highly meaningful and rewarding. Working with children of diverse developmental profiles allows trainees to observe a wide range of behavioural patterns and to tailor interventions to meet each child’s unique needs. This programme not only benefits the children and educators at SCSOA but also provides invaluable experiential learning for the next generation of clinical psychologists.