In Conversation with Eminent Clinical Psychologist Dr. Mehjabeen
Dr. Mehjabeen is a dedicated clinical psychologist whose work is centered around providing essential mental health care through counselling. With a passion for understanding human behavior and helping people overcome emotional struggles, Dr. Mehjabeen offers a safe and structured space for individuals to explore their emotions, gain self-awareness, and heal from trauma. Throughout her career, she has seen the transformative power of therapy and the lasting positive impacts it can have on individuals’ lives. In this conversation, we delve into her insights on the importance of counselling, how it benefits children, and the rewarding aspects of being a counsellor. Through her experience, she emphasizes the need for early intervention, the value of trust in building therapeutic relationships, and the importance of breaking common misconceptions about therapy.
1.Why is counselling considered an essential part of mental health care?
Answer: Counselling is essential in mental health care because it provides a structured and safe space for individuals to explore their thoughts, emotions, and experiences. It helps people develop coping mechanisms, gain self-awareness, and address unresolved trauma. Unlike medication, which primarily manages symptoms, counselling focuses on the root causes of emotional distress and promotes long-term healing. It plays a crucial role in improving mental well-being, strengthening relationships, and enhancing overall life satisfaction.
2.How does counselling specifically benefit children, and what unique challenges do you face when working with them?
Answer: Counselling benefits children by helping them express emotions they may not yet have the words for, process trauma, and develop healthy coping strategies. Play therapy, art therapy, and storytelling are often used to help children communicate their feelings in a non-verbal way.
One of the biggest challenges in working with children is building trust, especially if they have experienced neglect or trauma. Children may struggle to articulate their emotions, and their behaviour often serves as a primary form of communication. Engaging parents and caregivers is also crucial, as a child’s healing process is closely connect to their home environment.
3.At what point should someone consider seeking counselling? Are there early warning signs to look out for?
Answer: People should consider seeking counselling when they experience persistent emotional distress, difficulty coping with daily life, or a significant decline in mental well-being. Some early warning signs include:
Persistent feelings of sadness, anxiety, or hopelessness.
Sudden changes in behaviour, mood, or sleep patterns.
Difficulty concentrating or making decisions.
Increased withdrawal from social interactions. (Isolation)
Struggling to manage stress or overwhelming emotions.
Seeking help early can prevent minor issues from becoming more severe and ensures better emotional health.
4.What inspired you to pursue a career in psychology, and how did you decide to focus on counselling?
Answer: My journey into psychology was driven by a deep passion for understanding human behaviour and helping people understand their emotional struggles. Seeing the impact of mental health challenges on individuals and families motivated me to pursue this field.
I chose to focus on counselling because it provides an opportunity to directly engage with individuals, offering them guidance and support through their healing journey. Witnessing personal growth and transformation in clients /Pateint’s is incredibly fulfilling, and it reinforces my belief in the power of therapy and also creates magical result’s.
5.What are some common misconceptions people have about counselling, and how would you address them?
Answer:Several misconceptions exist about counselling, such as:
“Counselling is only for people with severe mental illnesses.” In reality, therapy benefits anyone facing emotional struggles, stress, or life transitions.
“Talking to friends is the same as talking to a counsellor.” While friends offer support, a professional counsellor provides structured guidance, confidentiality, and evidence-based strategies.
“Therapy is a sign of weakness.” Seeking help requires courage and is a proactive step towards mental wellness.
Education and awareness are key to breaking these myths and encouraging more people to seek the support they need.
6.In your experience, what are the most rewarding aspects of being a counsellor, and how do you stay motivated?
Answer: The most rewarding aspect of being a clinical psychologist is witnessing transformation—seeing clients/Pateint’s regain confidence, heal from past trauma, and improve their relationships. Helping someone rediscover hope and purpose is incredibly fulfilling.
To stay motivated, I focus on the positive impact my work and my goals creates. Continuous learning, engaging in self-care, and maintaining professional boundaries also help prevent burnout. The knowledge that I am contributing to someone’s healing journey keeps me inspired.
7.How do you approach building trust and rapport with your clients, especially in the early stages of therapy?
Answer: I create a safe, non-judgmental space, practice active listening, and show empathy. Patience, honesty, and a personalized approach help clients/Pateint’s feel comfortable and open up at their own pace.
Consistency, honesty, and genuine care help Building a strong therapeutic alliance, which is key to successful and a miraculous results.
