When I was schooling, I watched a crime drama television series called Criminal Minds and was fascinated with how the criminal profiler in the series was able to identify and link cases that may have been committed by the same perpetrator. That was the start of my interest in the field of psychology. In addition, I was curious and interested in learning and understanding about the motivation and underlying causes that contribute to one’s behavior. Hence, I decided to pursue a Bachelor of Science (Hons) Majors in Psychology and Communication at Upper Iowa University, USA.
During my bachelor’s degree, as someone who is also interested in volunteering, I was actively involved in voluntary work at different Non-Governmental Organisations and initiated some community projects to help the underprivileged individuals. Working with the underprivileged community gave me the opportunity to hear some of their life stories and a glimpse of the difficulties and trauma that they have encountered, and yet because of their socioeconomic status, they are not able to get access to mental health services. It was then that I wanted to further equip myself with clinical skills such as assessing, diagnosing and conducting psychotherapy so that I am better able to help them. This led me to pursue my Master of Clinical Psychology at UCSI University.
When I did my clinical placements, I had the opportunity to work with different client populations such as children with their parents and teachers, adolescents, adults and the refugee community. Some of my clinical placements include Dignity for Children Foundation, Pusat Psikologi dan Rehabilitasi Atfal Jannah, Klinik Psikologi Azlina, Mentem Psychological Services and ACTS Clinic.
My main therapeutic approach is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy where it involves helping clients to change their faulty or unhelpful ways of thinking in hopes of relieving their symptoms and so that they are able to function well in their lives. I also incorporate techniques from other modalities such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy.
Presently, I am a Wellness Coach working with The Mind’s corporate clients. I conduct individual and group coaching sessions, and trainings with the aim of increasing their resiliency to cope with stresses that usually arises from the issues that they encounter in their personal lives or at work.
I am thankful that I am able to be in the helping profession, helping people with regards to their psychological well-being. It is truly a privilege and honour to be able to journey with people especially when they are going through some really difficult times. Ultimately, I hope all of us will be able to thrive and be the best version of ourselves.