Why I chose psychology
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I feel that my passion and purpose is to help others. Initially, I thought becoming a medical doctor was the path to achieve that. I went on to medical school, but along the way, I realized something was missing. While the medical field offered valuable knowledge and skills, it didn't allow me to connect with people in the deep, meaningful way I had envisioned.
This realization led me to pivot into the field of psychology. I was drawn to the field's focus on understanding human behavior, emotions, and relationships. Studying psychology opened up a world of insight into the complexities of the human mind and the profound impact it has on our quality of life.
My journey in psychology began at the University of Pretoria, where I cultivated a deep understanding of the human mind and behavior. Focused on honing my skills and knowledge in mental health, I then pursued my Honours in Psychology at UNISA.
Driven by a desire to expand my expertise, I ventured to Chicago, USA, where I earned my Master's degree and underwent specialized training. This immersive experience equipped me with invaluable insights and techniques to connect with individuals on a deeper level and help them navigate their struggles and challenges.
I have had the privilege of working in diverse settings, including clinical behavioral hospitals, community outreach programs, and private practice. I provided therapy services to individuals of a wide range of cultures, ages, and identities. These experiences shaped my holistic approach to therapy.
Navigating through the field of psychology, I encountered not only personal barriers but also societal stigmas surrounding mental health, particularly prevalent in communities like my own. Growing up Muslim and South Asian, I witnessed the reluctance to openly discuss mental health issues due to cultural taboos and the fear of being labelled "weak" or "broken." This stigma often led to individuals suffering in silence, hesitant to seek the help they desperately needed. I personally understand the complexities and challenges in addressing mental health concerns in such communities.
In my downtime,
I unwind with some guilty pleasures like binge-watching reality shows on Netflix and getting lost in fantasy fiction novels. Exploring different cultures through cooking is another passion of mine—I'm always excited to try out new recipes from around the world. Plus, I'm a proud dog parent to Iroh, who brings so much joy to my life. A little fun fact about me: I used to have a fear of dogs, but through time and patience, I've managed to overcome it, and now, I simply can't get enough of their company! I enjoy nothing more than taking Iroh for long walks in the park with my husband—it's our favorite way to relax. Additionally, I prioritize self-care through practices such as yoga, meditation, and breathing exercises, which inform my therapeutic approach.
Education & Experience
BA Psychology
During my time at the University of Pretoria, I pursued a rigorous three-year program culminating in a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology. This immersive educational journey provided me with a solid foundation in the principles and theories of psychology, equipping me with essential knowledge and skills to understand human behavior and mental processes. Through engaging coursework, practical experiences, and collaborative learning environments, I gained valuable insights into various psychological perspectives and research methodologies.
BA Honours in Psychology
During my time at UNISA, I completed a one-year Bachelor of Arts Honours in Psychology, focusing on advanced psychological concepts and research methodologies. I conducted a dissertation titled "Young Adult Muslim Women's Attitudes towards Gender Roles in Port Elizabeth, South Africa," exploring the intersection of cultural and religious identities in shaping perceptions of gender roles. This experience deepened my understanding of psychological research and prepared me for further academic and professional pursuits in the field.
MA Clinical Mental Health Counselling
During my time at The Chicago School of Professional Psychology in the vibrant city of Chicago, I completed a comprehensive Master of Arts program in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. This program explored the intricate connections between culture, society, and psychological well-being, providing me with a deep understanding of how these factors impact mental health. Additionally, I gained practical experience through extensive training and a one-year internship at Hartgrove Behavioral Hospital, where I honed my skills in assessment, intervention, and therapeutic techniques. My education at The Chicago School equipped me with the expertise and practical experience needed to address the diverse challenges individuals encounter in today's world.
Clinical Behavioral Hospital
Community Practice
Private Practice
During my tenure at the behavioral hospital, I provided comprehensive mental health support to individuals across various age groups, offering group and individual therapy as well as trauma counseling and assessments. I worked closely with patients grappling with severe mental health challenges, including psychosis, aggression, suicidal ideation, and dangerous behaviors, ensuring their safety and facilitating their journey towards recovery and well-being.
In the mental health community setting, I collaborated with adolescents from low-income backgrounds across various schools, offering support for challenges both within the educational environment and at home. By fostering strong partnerships with students and their families, I provided tailored assistance to promote the holistic growth and well-being of each adolescent, ensuring they received the necessary support to thrive academically and emotionally.
In private practice setting, I provided care to adolescents and adults grappling with various mental health issues, such as depression, anxiety, trauma, ADHD, and more. Through personalized therapy sessions, I assisted individuals in navigating their difficulties and developing coping strategies tailored to their unique needs. My goal was to facilitate meaningful progress and emotional well-being for clients as they journeyed towards healing and self-discovery.