Sumaira Choudhury
- Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology
- Cognitive Behavioural Therapy
- Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy
About
Email: Sumaira@thetherapyspace.co
*Niche: Childhood Trauma, Family Dynamics, Relationship Issues, BPD, Self-Esteem, Cultural Identity
I know how hard it can be to open up about the more vulnerable parts of your life. Often, there are good reasons those parts have been kept protected. My role is to create a space where you can feel safe enough to be seen, heard, and understood, at your own pace.
My approach is grounded in the belief that many of the patterns we struggle with today once served a purpose. Rather than asking “what’s wrong with you”, we gently explore “what happened to you” and how your experiences have shaped the ways you relate to yourself and others. In our sessions, I will be using a culturally responsive and trauma-informed approach that explores the following:
- Identifying and prioritizing your goals
- Understanding the impact of past experiences and relationships
- Exploring current patterns and behaviours
- Working through difficult emotions and experiences
- Focusing on small actionable shifts to build momentum for change
- Integrating resilient coping skills and a self-compassionate lens
My hopes are to attune to your therapeutic needs and work with you on your journey towards growth and self-discovery. If you think we would be a good fit, please email me at sumaira@thetherapyspace.co to schedule a free 15-minute phone consultation. I look forward to meeting you!
Types of therapy:
Community focus:
What is it like working with you?
Working with me means working together as a team to address your needs. In our sessions, I want to be as open and authentic with you to foster a space that feels comfortable. Each session would be focused in on your needs and what you would like to talk about. If there isn’t something that comes to mind for a session, that is completely okay, as we will have overarching goals that we will gradually be working through. As we progress, I usually engage in questions that would help us explore certain topics more deeply. You can expect this approach to be curious, compassionate, and reassuring as we delve deeper to identify patterns, emotions, strengths, and supports. I also love being able to challenge clients to explore and reflect on areas they hadn’t thought of before!
What do you like most about being a therapist?
The most fulfilling part of being a therapist for me is being able to support and see clients on their journey towards self-discovery. It is truly a privilege to work with clients in a vulnerable way and give them the space needed for growth and recovery. I find the gradual shifts that take place over time, where clients begin to recognize their strengths, acknowledge their emotions, and prioritize themselves, an amazing process to witness. That is why for me, the journey is so pivotal! Since goals in therapy are dynamic and can continue to change, I love recognizing the presence of growth in the moments as it occurs in the entire process itself.
What are some ways you take care of your mental health?
Self-care has been a really important part of my life and the way I used to care for my mental health is engaging in activities that felt good: painting, playing Stardew Valley, hiking, reading, kickboxing, watching reality shows, and so many more. Although, these hobbies are still very important to me, I recognize now it is more about giving myself space/rest when needed, learning to let go of mistakes, reminding myself of my strengths, asking for support when needed and acknowledging where I am at each day emotionally, physically, and mentally.
