Strengths for the Award
- Extensive Academic and Professional Qualifications: Dr. Kit holds a Ph.D. from Nanyang Technological University, an M.A. in Applied Psychology from NTU, a Postgraduate Diploma in Human Resource Management from the University of Luton, and a B.A. from the National University of Singapore. These credentials underline her deep academic foundation and expertise in psychology.
- Diverse Research Interests and Contributions: Her research spans qualitative and quantitative studies, focusing on various areas such as group and online counseling processes, school engagement, mid-career change, and motivation for low-progress students. This breadth of research topics indicates a robust and comprehensive approach to addressing key issues in psychology.
- Prolific Publication Record: Dr. Kit has published numerous journal articles, book chapters, and conference presentations. Her work is featured in respected journals such as the British Journal of Guidance & Counselling and Journal of Adolescence. This extensive publication record reflects her active and influential presence in the research community.
- Keynote Addresses and International Recognition: She has delivered keynote addresses at significant conferences, such as the TOUCH Family Conference 2022 and the International Congress of Applied Psychology (ICAP 2018). Her international presentations highlight her role as a thought leader in her field.
- Significant Clinical and Teaching Contributions: As a Senior Lecturer at NTU’s National Institute of Education, she contributes to training future psychologists and counselors. Her roles in clinical supervision and crisis intervention further demonstrate her commitment to practical application and mentorship.
- Leadership and Board Memberships: Dr. Kit’s involvement in leadership roles, such as the Honorary Secretary of the Catholic Family Life Society and a member of the Singapore Register of Psychologists’ Applications Subcommittee, underscores her dedication to advancing the profession and influencing policy.
Areas for Improvement
- Broader Impact and Citation Metrics: While Dr. Kit has an impressive number of publications, expanding her research’s impact through higher citation metrics and broader engagement with influential research networks could further enhance her profile.
- Interdisciplinary Research: Exploring interdisciplinary approaches or collaborations with researchers from other fields could enrich her research perspectives and applications, potentially leading to novel insights and innovations.
- Increased Focus on Emerging Trends: Incorporating research on emerging trends in psychology, such as digital mental health tools or new therapeutic methodologies, might provide additional relevance and influence in contemporary settings.
Short Biography
Dr. Irena Tay-Kit Phey Ling is a distinguished psychologist with a comprehensive background in both academic and clinical settings. She holds a Ph.D. from Nanyang Technological University (NTU), an M.A. in Applied Psychology from NTU, and additional qualifications from the University of Luton and the National University of Singapore. Dr. Kit is renowned for her expertise in counseling psychology, evidenced by her extensive research, clinical practice, and contributions to professional training and supervision. She is a registered psychologist and serves on various boards and committees, including the Catholic Family Life Society and the Singapore Register of Psychologists.
Profile
ORCID
Education
Dr. Kit obtained her Ph.D. from Nanyang Technological University, where she developed a strong foundation in psychological research and practice. She also earned an M.A. in Applied Psychology from NTU, a Postgraduate Diploma in Human Resource Management from the University of Luton, and a B.A. from the National University of Singapore. Her diverse educational background equips her with a multifaceted understanding of psychology and human development.
Experience
Dr. Kit has extensive clinical and academic experience. She has worked in various capacities, including as a psychologist in Mount Elizabeth Hospital’s adult psychiatric ward and with the Children-At-Risk Empowerment Association (CARE Singapore). Currently, she is a Senior Lecturer at NTU’s National Institute of Education, where she leads the Masters of Arts (Applied Psychology) Program. Her roles encompass training and supervising future psychologists and counselors, and she is involved in crisis intervention and clinical supervision.
Research Interests
Dr. Kit’s research interests are broad and include qualitative and quantitative studies in counseling processes, school engagement, and motivation. Her work focuses on group and online counseling, trainee counselors’ development, and mental health research for students and teachers. She explores how these areas intersect with educational psychology and aims to improve counseling practices and educational outcomes through her research.
Awards
Dr. Kit’s contributions to psychology have been recognized through her active roles in professional organizations and her influential research. While specific awards are not listed, her impactful research and leadership positions highlight her esteemed reputation in the field.
Publications
Dr. Kit has published extensively in reputable journals. Here are some of her notable publications:
Kit, P.L., Ow Yeong, W.M.E., & Chen, M. (In-press). Changing Professional Identities: A Qualitative Study of How Singapore Allied Educators Managed Their Own Resistance to Change. Teacher Development
Kit, P.L., Liem, G.A.D., & Chong, W.H. (2022). Teacher-student relationship and student engagement: The moderating role of educational hope. Educational Psychology: An International Journal of Experimental Educational Psychology, 42(9), 1180-1197
Chong, W.H., Liem, G.A.D., Huan, V.S., Kit, P.L., & Ang, R.P. (2018). Student perceptions of self-efficacy and teacher support for learning in fostering youth competencies: Roles of affective and cognitive engagement. Journal of Adolescence, 68, 1-11
Kit, P.L., Teo, C.T., Tan, M., & Park, Y. (2018). Singapore children’s online counselling experiences on a live chat portal. British Journal of Guidance & Counselling, 46(2), 182-195
Kit, P.L., & Tang, P. (2017). Strengthening support for children and youth in Singapore: A personal therapy approach to training paraprofessional counsellors. Asia Pacific Journal of Counselling and Psychotherapy, 9(1), 1-22
Kit, P.L., Teo, C.T., Tan, M., & Park, Y. (2017). Singaporean Counsellors’ Online Counselling Experiences with Children: An Exploratory Qualitative Study. Journal of Asia Pacific Counseling, 7(2), 141-168
Conclusion
Dr. Irena Tay-Kit Phey Ling is a highly suitable candidate for the Best Researcher Award. Her impressive academic qualifications, extensive and diverse research contributions, substantial publication record, international recognition, and influential roles in clinical practice and teaching highlight her significant impact in the field of psychology. While there are areas for potential growth, her overall achievements and dedication strongly support her candidacy for this prestigious award.