Introduction :
Therapy is often seen as a deeply personal and transformative experience, both for clients and for those who provide guidance and support. In this insightful interview, we had the privilege to speak with Nadiyah. She is a therapist whose journey into this field is as inspiring as the work she does every day. From a career in real estate to becoming a compassionate and versatile integrative therapist, Nadiyah’s story is a testament to resilience, passion, and the power of human connection.
Interview with Nadiyah:
1. What inspired you to become a therapist?
- My own experience going to therapy was very positive. I worked in an estate agency for many years which was very different, however, I lost one of my closest friends whilst I was pregnant. This led to me having the courage to become one myself.
2. Can you tell us about your educational journey in Therapy and training to become a therapist?
- I didn’t go to university because I was still working full time and had a child. Instead, I did the diploma route which took 5 years. It was a very long route but I could still go to college during the night and be around family. Level one was very theory-heavy and levels 2 and 4 were much more practical to get a taste of what a session would be like. Additionally, level 4 was 2 years that’s where placements and exams come in.
3. How long have you been practising therapy, and what types of treatment do you specialize in?
- I have now been practising for 3 and a half years. Additionally, I am qualified to work as an integrative therapist which has trained me in 4 different styles of therapy to tailor and fit the needs of all types of people. I chose not to do a specialism because it allowed me to be adaptable and versatile to all.
4. Can you walk us through a typical day in your life as a therapist?
- Very versatile. No day is the same which I love about my job. My day consists of 3-8 clients depending on the day or hours. I may have one day in the week when I am fully booked. Furthermore, some sessions will be in person or online, and days may consist of workshops.
5. How do you prepare for therapy sessions, both mentally and practically?
- Getting enough sleep and clearing my mind of any outside noise definitely helps. Additionally, making a conscious effort to journal, listen to podcasts and music to reset for the day and make sure I am very present in a session. I always skimp through notes from my last session with my upcoming client. Finally, I make sure the room is set the same way and comfortable for each client.
6. How do you handle situations during a therapy session, where a client doesn’t open up or struggles to express their emotions?
- I reassure a client who is struggling to open up. This is more common in younger clients. I reassure and remind them it’s okay to open up and make them their hope and what they wish to get out of it. I am very patient and give them the time to open up naturally and to take their time.
7. Are there any common misconceptions people have about therapy or therapists?
- You have to have a problem or issue to go to therapy. I speak to them every day to talk about life or give them a space to be heard anyone is welcome to therapy.
- People think Therapy is like in the movies. Just asking “How do You Feel” and nodding their heads.
8. What are some of the most challenging aspects of your job?
- I talk a lot daily from my clients, but also I have my own life and dilemmas. That doesn’t necessarily mean I don’t have the full capacity, but has made me learn to be a bit more strict on my self care and who I say yes and no to. Additionally, it has made me more mindful of whom in let in. I have to be careful of how much I am taking on and knowing my capacity.
9. How do you cope with emotional burnout or secondary trauma from hearing difficult stories?
- I go for a walk between clients, when I need to build emotional resilience. During those breaks, I also jot down notes about my process. The time between sessions is crucial- it helps me reset. Taking time off is just as important, so I can come back stringer for my clients. Telling myself I shouldn’t feel guilty for taking that time to myself.
10. What is the most rewarding part of being a therapist?
- How trusting people are of me with their worries, fears and feelings. I am very honoured to support people the way I do and they can share with me.
11. How do you maintain professional boundaries while building rapport with your clients?
- I am always aware of boundaries and I am not afraid to remind clients of these boundaries but I always have empathy and am not judgmental which allows me to build a rapport with clients.
12. How do you approach ethical dilemmas that might arise in your practice?
- At the moment I know my ethical requirements are to trust my gut and have transparency. I have my training to educate myself or I will take it to my supervisor.
13. Have your experiences as a therapist influenced your personal life or relationships?
- Most definitely I am a lot more patient empathy and understanding and it allowed me to be the world from many perspectives I am still growing.
14. What advice would you give to someone considering a career in therapy?
- I would say go for it and trust the process do a lot of research into the course. The course is bonafide and accredited, so be prepared. To be taken seriously in the world of therapy, be confident to go for it. I can say for myself that it has been an amazing journey.
Conclusion :
Nadiyah’s journey as a therapist underscores the profound impact that dedication, resilience, and empathy can have on personal and professional growth. From navigating personal loss to building a career centred on helping others, her story highlights the transformative potential of therapy—not just for clients, but for therapists themselves.
By breaking stereotypes and embracing the challenges of her work, Nadiyah reminds us that therapy is for anyone seeking understanding, growth, and a safe space to be heard. Her inspiring experiences serve as a beacon for those considering this career path or looking to explore the benefits of therapy in their own lives.
As Nadiyah puts it, being trusted with someone’s fears, worries, and hopes is an honour—and a responsibility she embraces with grace and care. Her insights offer a valuable perspective on the importance of connection, boundaries, and self-care, making this field as rewarding as it is impactful.
For Nadiyah’s services, visit her website
Thank you for reading, click the link to read more of our Interviews Articles
Author
Zita Salum, a British, Tanzanian journalist with a London heart, is making waves in the world of media. Born and Raised in Hackney London, she discovered her passion for storytelling at a young age. Her journey began as an admin for the Inside Success magazine, but her talent quickly shone through. Zita's ability to craft compelling narratives and her knack for capturing the essence of a story led her to become an editor for the magazine.
From there, her career soared. Zita has contributed to a diverse range of publications, including the prestigious W magazine, showcasing her versatility as a writer. Her expertise spans across industries such as music, corporate, political, sports, arts, and fashion. Beyond her written work, Zita has also excelled in broadcast journalism. Her natural ability to connect with interviewees and her engaging hosting style have made her a sought-after talent in the industry.
In her free time, Zita is a dedicated networker, attending industry events and immersing herself in the latest trends. She is also passionate about investigative journalism and has produced creative documentaries that shed light on important issues. With her talent, drive, and unwavering commitment to her craft, Zita Salum is undoubtedly a rising star in the world of journalism.
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