Back in school, while learning “A Psalm of Life” by H.W. Longfellow, the words “For the soul is dead that slumbers” made me realize it is time I decide what I wish to do with my life. This was in grade 8. I invested half my free time that year talking to my parents, teachers and peers for helping me understand my strengths and weaknesses, while also trying to reflect on what it is that I genuinely enjoy doing. That was the time I realized that I always found satisfaction in listening to what people have to share, a genuine interest in their stories of struggle and resilience and that it was a humbling experience to play a little part in motivating people around me to reach their goals. What I then learnt is that I could do these as a professional and that is where my journey to become a counselor and a life-skills facilitator began!

While I used to initially wonder what keeps therapists motivated in their careers for years to come, I gradually realized that it is the wondrous opportunities to explore and work-through that brings in the joy and satisfaction. To me, being a counselor has meant significantly helping people improve their lives.

I would hope for my clients to feel this is a safe space for them to express themselves, and that they are not alone along their way; they have someone who sees and hears them non-judgmentally. Also, importantly, this could be the starting point for them to realize and develop their sense of agency.

Thank you for reaching out. This might be a new and a different experience for you, and I want you to know that I am right here to answer whatever questions I can in my capacity. This is a space where we will be working together and I am already proud of you for having taken the first step towards healing.

I would wish to build a relationship based on mutual respect, trust, openness and equality.

For me, at the core of being a mental health therapist is the rich experience of learning about what it means to be human. Every human around is an inspiration as each person walks their own journey, is intrinsically good and innately strives for being a better individual with time.

Some of my strengths as a counsellor that I value include providing a safe, non-judgmental, respectful space for my clients. I see myself as a facilitator in this therapeutic space, lending a genuine ear and always eager to update myself as a profession.

I read, sing, listen to music, dance, watch movies and shows, solve puzzles, spend time with animals and try out different eateries.

I use an eclectic approach with a strengths-based perspective. I believe that every individual has the resources within themselves and my role would be to help them realize and utilize these resources in a healthy and an effective way.

I am not QACP certified yet, but have considerable experience working with clients from the community in therapy. I have taken self-study, supervision and peer discussions to help me be well-equipped for the same.