What is psychotherapy? Will it help me?
Saha wellbeing offers specialist psychotherapy with a range of modalities, including psychodynamic and humanistic methods. These incorporate integrative approaches specifically tailored to your needs and designed to provide the best options for handling your unique challenges and attaining any of your desired goals.
Psychotherapy can feel like you are untangling your past and the emotions accompanying your thoughts. Throughout this gentle and compassionate process, you can be guided to take the actions necessary to work through any unresolved pain and current obstacles.
Will I be judged?
From our Doctor: Saha Wellbeing highly emphasises that we are all on our own journeys and at different levels. My clients are from all different walks of life and spirituality, I am truly blessed to experience many grow in practice and love for our beautiful religion. However, this isn't to say that this is the core focus for therapy, yet a very wholesome part of having a Faith-based service.
Know that we are all journeying and in therapy your journey is always respected and valued.
Is Saha Wellbeing only for Muslims?
Saha Wellbeing is open to all: Muslims or non-Muslims. In our initial sessions, we may address the topics of spirituality and faith to understand whether you wish to incorporate spirituality into your therapy or not. For several years, we have been extremely successful in supporting non-Muslims using similar principles to those of Islamic psychology.
Our aim is to support individuals through psychotherapy while providing a space for them to openly explore their past, present, faith and spirituality.
Who will I see?
Saha Wellbeing is a female-led service, so you will see a sister. Although, we do welcome male clients for couples and family therapy.
Our therapists are qualified doctoral-level clinical/counselling psychologists registered with several professional bodies, including the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) and the British Psychological Society (BPS).
Not only did our doctors earn their doctorates from prestigious universities, but they also went on to further their studies in Islamic psychology by enrolling in several courses, including the Islamic Psychology Certificate from the Islamic Open University chaired by Dr Bilal Phillips.
Do I have to be religious?
Islamic counselling applies rich Islamic principles on understanding the ‘self’ and the world. However, it can be beneficial to anyone of any religion, or even those who do not observe a faith.
Do you offer Islamic guidance?
Not at all. We see Muslims and non-Muslims at different stages in their journeys. We do not offer Islamic advice, dawah or any form of Islamic teachings. We may discuss Islamic principles related to your sessions, but this is done collaboratively and client-led.
How much do you charge?
Charges vary depending on whether the client uses their insurance or pays privately. We aim to be accessible for all, so please talk to the doctor and discuss our price list and whether concessions are applicable.
Is there a waiting list for concessions?
No, we aim to allocate slots for concessions wherever possible and have been able to manage this thus far.
Any concerns and worries?
Taking the first steps toward seeing a therapist can be intimidating because you do not know what to expect. There is still a stigma around getting psychological support, which can make those who seek it feel that they are weak or too vulnerable.
Despite our therapists' professionalism, years of training and gentle approach, some may understandably worry about being judged or misunderstood in counselling sessions. We encourage an open and honest dialogue where we hope you are comfortable enough to share any doubts about therapy.
What will my first session be like?
Your first session will be an initial consultation where you and the therapist will discuss your expectations of therapy and what you wish to achieve from your sessions.
Your therapist will walk you through this, so there is no need to worry if you are unsure. By the end of this initial session, you can decide whether Islamic counselling is right for you, and whether you feel that the therapist is suited to you and your needs. Inshallah (If Allah ﷻ wills).
COVID-19 procedures and effects of the pandemic
The worldwide pandemic has changed many lives in inconceivable ways: not only has it led many to experience the resurfacing of past traumas but has formed the unexpected blows of bereavement, anxiety, stress, uncertainty and depression.
Therapy is an active way of addressing these issues and working on ourselves and our relationships.
Saha Wellbeing is constantly monitoring COVID-19 regulations and is taking full precautions where advised.
How many sessions?
Your counsellor will work with you through your continued journey in therapy to decide how many sessions you feel would be appropriate.
You are free to terminate your therapy at any time, providing you let the therapist know in advance.
How often will my sessions be?
The frequency of your sessions will be agreed upon by you and your doctor but are usually once a week, at the same time and same day. Sessions last for 50 minutes.