Growing up in an environment that emphasized on achievements and success, I noticed that there were some, that needed support but were afraid to reach out due to the stigmas surrounding mental health. Words like ‘depression’ or ‘therapist’ was seen as a taboo, and slits on wrists had to be covered up with reasonable excuses, such as, ‘I got these scars from my cat’. It was devastating to witness how they had to hide their pain, when talking about their suffering was what they needed most. This inspired me to be that comforting ear for others to speak to, and sparked my journey into the field of psychology.
My journey began with the Bachelor of Psychology in HELP University, following which, I completed my Master’s in Clinical Psychology also in HELP University. During my practicum training, I was given the opportunity to work with a wide range of individuals with depression, anxiety, mood disorders, and suicidal ideation at sites like Centre for Psychological Counselling and Services (CPCS), Dignity for Children Foundation, and The Mind Psychological Services and Training. I conduct individual psychotherapy and carry out psychological assessments with adults and children. My experience thus far has been a humbling one, allowing me the opportunity to sit with my clients and provide a safe space for them to talk about their ails. These experiences offered me the opportunity to view the process of therapy like a puzzle, gradually fiSng in the pieces together so that we could see the story as a cohesive whole.
My main therapeutic approach is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. Using this approach, I help my clients to understand the connection between their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors, and gaining the ability to evaluate and reframe certain unhelpful thinking paTerns or behaviors that might bring progressive change to their daily functioning. In addition, I also incorporate certain skills from Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) to help certain individuals to beTer regulate their emotions or to learn healthier coping strategies.
Therapy is a huge step, and things may seem overwhelming at first. But whilst your struggles are your own, the journey to recovery does not have to be a lonely one. I look forward to journeying with you, and together, we’ll strive to reach you goals, and get you back on your feet again