Hello! I’m Fathima

Psychotherapist

Hi, I am Fathima Ahmed. I am a Registered Counsellor – Psychotherapist and a Licensed Professional practising in the field of Psychology since my registration with HPCSA in 2014. My theory is that there is a tool for everything. One just needs to find the correct way in which to match the tool to the problem, individual or the situation.

Like many modern therapists I use a combination of approaches to suit my clients personal and professional needs. I do not use a ‘one size fits all’ approach. I endeavour to relate to my clients as individuals and tailor my approach accordingly. My overall approach is integrative and my clinical experience includes work at Headway Brain Trauma Rehabilitation Centre in Hyde Park and Alexandra, High Schools, Employee Wellness Programmes at Corporates and seeing clients in my Private Practise.

Psychotherapy and counselling are both ‘talking therapies’ and it is very difficult to differentiate between them. They both involve you talking to the therapist, often more than the therapist will be talking to you, and both involve helping you to discover and use your own resources to resolve your issues in the most effective way possible.

Often, the need for therapy arises when life appears to be out of balance, not only in relation to yourself, but also with others. The aim of therapy is to generate equilibrium. This means bringing back a balance between opposite forces or influences. Every problem has more than one viewpoint. There are always options. The experiences of hurt, confusion, desperation or helplessness are only one side of the coin. Even when we are suffering greatly, it is possible to find meaning in our pain and become wiser. The challenges of life can teach us how to be more self-contained, have presence of mind and gain tranquility.

Some may look for support with a specific issue or personal growth, while others wish to engage in a deeper relationship with themselves and others. Constructive, structured and uncomplicated talking can definitely help.

The treatment approach is focused, based on problem solving and contemporary cognitive techniques such as Cognitive Behavioral Techniques. CBT helps clients develop new thinking styles and practical stress management skills. Sessions are limited to an agreed number of sessions. In most cases a relatively small number of sessions are sufficient to help someone who comes along at an early stage in the development of a stress related condition.