My interest in counselling sprouted from my decade-long tenure as a special needs teacher, working closely with students facing learning difficulties such as Autism, ADHD, and Dyslexia. Witnessing their mental health struggles underscored the need for better psychological support for youth. Simultaneously, my personal counselling journey highlighted the power of self-discovery in cultivating positive change. These experiences shaped my role as a counsellor by providing a safe and compassionate space for clients to embark on their own journey of self-exploration and healing.

I am a strong believer in how past trauma can have a big impact on our present lives and functioning. When working with trauma, my therapeutic approach emphasises the importance of reconnecting back with our bodies through somatic practices that nurture stronger mind-body awareness and attunement. Through Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR), I further support clients in working through their past pain while also helping them learn to sit with uncomfortable feelings and knowing that they can get through it.

With children and teens, I take a more holistic approach by working with both the child and the parents to facilitate meaningful shifts within the family system. I look to provide a safe-space for the child to be vulnerable and accepted while also helping them understand and regulate their emotions better. Active involvement of the child’s parents is essential to the process too. Together, we will assess and adjust interactional patterns within the family and work towards creating a judgment-free space for the child to openly share their inner world.

For couples, I use concepts from Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) to build an understanding of each partner’s needs, identify and intentionally shift relational dynamics and fostering stronger communication. This may involve working individually with each partner to help facilitate a deeper change which can help bring out the best of each person within the relationship.

Growing up with a mixed heritage (Malay-Irish) has given me the opportunity to connect with people of all walks of life. In my free time, I enjoy playing video games, playing football, cycling and jamming on the piano. Outside of the counselling room, I am a board member of the Trauma Therapy Association. I am hoping to build awareness regarding trauma and the impact it has on our lives while also creating a solid foundation and community for trauma-informed therapy in Malaysia.