One of the biggest challenges people face today is managing our attention and staying self-aware amidst the ever-changing demands of society. The mind does not inherently know what is good or bad for us; it simply operates on the principle that the more we practice something, the better we become at it. In today’s fast-paced world, many of us unintentionally "practice" distraction or operate on autopilot—and unfortunately, we get better at it. This contributes to burnout and emotional exhaustion.
One of the great ironies is that despite being the most cognitively advanced species, the very tool that sets humans apart—our minds, can sometimes become our biggest hurdle. We dwell on what has already happened, which can pull us into depression, or we fixate on what might happen, feeding our anxiety. At the core of this struggle is often a lack of self-awareness, which keeps us trapped in these patterns without realizing it.
This is where ACT can be valuable, as it helps individuals cultivate present-moment awareness and make more intentional choices aligned with their values for a more fulfilling and balanced life.
I focus on Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), and Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT). Being a philosophy enthusiast, especially in Buddhist and Indian spirituality, I felt that these therapeutic approaches resonated deeply with my beliefs.
I also have a strong interest in working with Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CALD) clients, young adults, male mental health issues, relationship challenges and spiritual/existential concerns. I am passionate about these areas as my lived experiences enable me to relate with my clients in a way that feels genuine and empathetic.
Having grown up in a multiethnic country, I have become deeply aware of the different cultures and values that shape people’s experiences and understand the complexities of adjusting to different cultural environments. I also recognize the unique challenges surrounding male mental health, particularly the struggles tied to “modern masculinity,” which is often marginalized and stigmatized.
Growing up with a learning challenge, I often struggled with self-criticism and had a pessimistic outlook on my future. A turning point came after high school during a conversation with a friend in allied health who was deeply into philosophy. He encouraged me to reflect on whether my beliefs were truly my own or shaped by external influences. That simple reflection sparked a profound shift in my thinking. I realized that many of my limiting beliefs were not my own but shaped by external voices and past experiences. From that moment, I sought to discover objective truths and reshape those beliefs into more accurate, helpful narratives.
As I embraced this shift, I developed a healthier mindset and grew more resilient. This new way of thinking also deepened my appreciation for philosophy, particularly its power to inspire and empower others. This ultimately drew me to psychology as a way to apply philosophy and science to help others live to their fullest potential. I also drew inspiration from my mum, who is a special needs teacher. Her dedication to helping others had a profound impact on me, driving me to pursue psychology to make a meaningful difference in people’s lives.
I believe the foundation of a successful therapist-client relationship lies in creating a space where clients feel safe, understood, and free to be fully themselves without fear of judgment.
Authenticity and genuine connection are essential, as clients need to trust that their therapist is not only competent but also personally invested in their well-being.
Attentiveness, combined with an earnest sense of curiosity, is key to nurturing this connection.
The simple act of holding space for clients to express their story while listening attentively can be healing in itself. Being attentive goes beyond just hearing with your ears—it is about listening with your entire body, being fully present and observing the nuances of the client’s emotions and behaviours. When both therapist and client connect on this deeper level, meaningful progress and healing can truly unfold.
Starting therapy can feel daunting, and I want to highlight that there is no shame or weakness in seeking help and wanting to improve your life. We all will struggle with different things at different times, and when people are struggling, it is often just a moment in their life where they might need a little more guidance.
Many people believe they need to have a severe condition or diagnosed disorder to seek support, but there is no reason too small to go to therapy. Even if you just feel like “I need someone to talk to,” that is more than enough reason to seek support. There is nothing more valuable than investing in yourself. If we are not taking care of ourselves, we cannot show up for the other important aspects of our lives.
Therapy is a journey, not a quick fix, and finding a therapist you feel comfortable with is crucial for the process to be effective. Be open about your concerns, ask questions, and know that it is completely fine to be vulnerable.
