About Me
Shabana Bi
A Personal Therapist
I’m Shabana, a professional counsellor based in Peterborough. I have my own private practice where I provide counselling services.
During my time at Peterborough College, I discovered that I was the only Muslim counsellor in my group. It was interesting to be in group projects where my peers’ asked questions about how to handle situations with Muslim clients.
It was a great learning experience for all of us. I got to share my knowledge, and they got to understand more about the world of counselling and its importance for individuals seeking help.
This experience motivated me to break the stigma surrounding counselling in my community. I wanted to guide individuals through the healing process, especially in areas like bereavement, and show them the true power of counselling.
As a person-centred counsellor, I focus on tailoring my approach to meet the unique needs and goals of each client. I offer a free first session to explore our compatibility and how we can work together.
Creating Unity through Charity: Empowering the Local Community for Positive Impact
In my role as a community engagement officer and fundraiser, I am passionate about getting the local community involved in charity work and fundraising. I believe that charity work not only benefits those in need but also brings people together, creating a sense of unity and shared purpose. By raising awareness and organizing events, I strive to make a safe space for people to come together, learn about the importance of charity, and make a positive impact on the lives of others.
Having worked as a customer service advisor for over a decade, I have honed my communication skills, both verbally and in writing. Through my counselling studies and professional development, I have further developed my ability to interact with vulnerable individuals. Additionally, I am fluent in English, Urdu, Punjabi, Mirpuri, and Potwari.
Mastering Time and Nurturing Connections: The Power of Interpersonal Skills in Counselling
Time management is a skill I have mastered through my studies while juggling work and parental duties. I have created and adhered to timetables to effectively manage my tasks and responsibilities. This skill has been invaluable in my current position and allows me to provide efficient and effective counselling services.
Interpersonal skills are crucial in my work as a therapist. Through my customer service role and my involvement with Children of Adam, I have interacted with diverse individuals and learned to adapt my approach accordingly. Moreover, my placement training at Little Miracles, HMP Stocken prison, Peterborough Rape Crisis, and Cruse Bereavement Care has further enhanced my interpersonal skills and prepared me to handle a wide range of scenarios.
Passionate Therapist with Empathy and Fundraising Success
Outside of my work, I am passionate about charitable endeavours and regularly participate in community projects and events. I enjoy swimming, going for walks, and spending quality time with my family and friends.
When it comes to my qualities as a therapist, I prioritize confidentiality and organization. I never take anything personally and am receptive to advice without a negative mindset. I can handle criticism and possess a high level of understanding and empathy. Being a good listener is a fundamental aspect of my practice, and I strive to be self-aware, thoughtful, and mindful toward both myself and others. Additionally, I have proven fundraising abilities, having raised substantial amounts for various projects through JustGiving pages and organizing events.
Empathetic Therapist: Supporting Clients Through Loss and Volunteering
My decision to pursue bereavement training stems from my desire to gain a better understanding of coping strategies to support my clients effectively. Loss, whether it be through death, marriage, or job changes, is a universal experience, and I believe that understanding loss will enable me to assist my community and clients in the best way possible.
I am motivated to continue my volunteer work at Peterborough Rape Crisis and the prison system, as these experiences have been immensely rewarding. Being able to assist and be part of the journey of individuals in these settings is a privilege.
Qualifications
- Diploma in Counselling and Psychotherapy Level 5 (Dip Couns)
- Certificates in Counselling Studies Level 3 and Counselling Skills Level 2
- Introduction into Counselling Certificate
Specialized Training
- Bereavement Support
- Trauma-related Complex Dissociation
- Stress and Trauma
- Anger and Violence
- Anxiety
- Mental Health First Aid
I am a member of the NCPS - National Counselling Psychotherapy Society
