In 2015, I began my journey as a social worker and ever since I’ve worked with individuals and families on various social issues. My interest in becoming a psychotherapist began when I started working with child survivors of sexual abuse. I was granted the opportunity to get an insight into the inner world of children and families I worked with. While I witnessed the challenges people went through after experiencing severe trauma, I also witnessed their journey towards healing and self-acceptance with the right support. It was then that I knew I wanted to do more. I wanted to support those experiencing emotional pain and help them to heal. With this motivation, I went on to pursue a master’s in Counselling and Psychotherapy at Keele University. In my education, I gained a deeper insight into mental health needs of people, the stigma surrounding it and the importance of increasing accessibility to it.

There is sufficient evidence to prove the efficacy of counselling and psychotherapy to help manage a wide range of mental health issues. I witnessed the effectiveness of therapy first hand when I signed up for one. In a really long time, I felt understood. I was able to draw emotional nourishment from the safe space I was offered and I came out of therapy stronger. The process helped me to bring a meaningful change in my perspective towards life. Through Lean On Therapy, I want to extend this safe space to more people. I am passionate about supporting people experiencing mental turmoil and advocating for expansion of such services through education and creative action. I know that I cannot be a warrior for everyone but I am hopeful that my efforts will help in increasing accessibility to quality mental health support for the masses.