The thought of becoming a therapist came to mind when I was in primary school. I often spent time observing the people around me trying to answer one question – How do we live our lives together happily? Having been the listener to my group of friends, I saw how the people around me faced their struggles in various ways, and how much of a difference it made to just show that we are available if they ever want to talk things out. It was amazing to notice how we all think differently, and that it is through these experiences that we grow together. I recall thinking to myself how much better a world it would be if we could all spend more time listening and supporting one another. We would not have to feel so alone while manoeuvring life’s challenges. It was probably idealistic of me to think that way, especially given how I was very shy and afraid of leaving my comfort zone. However, that unanswered question fuelled my passion for the field of psychology.

Pursuing a Bachelor of Social Science (Hons) in Psychology at Tunku Abdul Rahman University College, Malaysia was the first step. Lessons on the diversity of psychological disorders and the notion that we could find ways to move forward despite the obstacles were intriguing. My heart went out to the people with dementia and their caregivers when undergoing internship. Carrying with me the interest in psychological interventions, I continued this journey with the aim of empowering individuals with mental health concerns to manage their challenges and live a more enriching life.

This led me to pursue a Master of Clinical Psychology at University of Cyberjaya, Malaysia. As a trainee therapist, it was an honour to have served people with medical conditions that require care from interdisciplinary teams in Hospital Rehabilitasi Cheras. At Hospital Kuala Lumpur, it was a privilege to work together with individuals with neurological or psychological conditions.

I have journeyed together with them by carrying out psychological assessments and interventions to manage their depressive disorder, anxiety disorders, stress, adjustment issues, and chronic pain. Through meeting people with different backgrounds, the answer to my question of how we can live our lives together happily is one that changes according to the clients’ lives.

With Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) as my main therapeutic approach, I equip clients with ways to reframe the unhelpful thoughts and to explore coping strategies suited to their lifestyle that aid them in managing their emotions. Based on the clients’ needs, I enjoy incorporating techniques or activities from positive psychology or Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) as well.

Presently, I work with The Mind’s corporate clients. I conduct individual, group and training sessions to boost their resilience so that when they face life’s hurdles, they continue to live the life that they want while doing what is important to them.

Everyone has a story to tell. We may have similar experiences, but the lens with which we have been seeing the world around us, our toolbox of coping strategies as well as our values acting as the compass bring us to different routes. Sometimes, we go on detours where we find ourselves feeling quite lost and alone without much hope or support. Let me be a therapist who walks alongside you as we draw a map together while you continue your journey towards being your best self.