About Me
Here is a little bit about me and my journey into counselling…
Why I Became a Therapist
My name is Nabeelah Khan-Cheema and I’m a counsellor and Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapist. Prior to becoming a therapist, I worked as an Orthoptist (eyes) in the NHS, for over 30 years. So, how did I get from Orthoptics to a career in counselling?
Well, it began when I sought counselling during a difficult period in my life. Through this experience, I realised the power of being truly heard and understood. Therapy enabled me to gain a better understanding of myself, to feel more in control and to make changes in my life. This experience was transformative, and I often wished I had started therapy sooner. This realisation inspired me to change careers and follow a new passion, of supporting women with their emotional wellbeing.
My Experience of Being a Client
Having sat in the client’s chair, I understand how daunting that can feel. Even making that first contact can feel terrifying. Not to mention having concerns about revealing your inner thoughts to a stranger, or worrying that you won’t know what to say or that you’ll say too much.
Seeking help also felt like a sense of failure, that somehow I had not been able to sort things out by myself.
However, I now realise how much courage and strength it takes to face up to your struggles and it’s certainly not a sign of weakness. It’s actually making a proactive choice in order to better yourself and your relationships.
Cultural Identity
As a second generation South Asian and a mum of grown-up children, I have lived through the many trials and tribulations that life throws at us. I understand the challenges of having to navigate the complexities of identity, family dynamics, and societal expectations.
Although there is still a stigma about having therapy in the Asian culture, I am heartened to see that many of my clients are in their twenties and thirties. It’s encouraging to witness a shift where younger women are seeking support earlier and not waiting until they reach a crisis point. I feel proud to be part of a movement that normalises seeking help.
My Approach to Therapy
My main way of working is person-centred, which is talking through whatever is troubling you now, as well as exploring how your past experiences may have impacted you.
I am also Level 1 trained in Internal Family Systems (IFS), a powerful and respectful therapy model that helps you explore and heal the different parts of yourself—especially those carrying pain, shame, or inner conflict.
I also offer Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) based strategies and share other resources to help you manage your thoughts and feelings and make changes.
I can be flexible according to your needs, ranging from a few sessions to more long-term work, as well as weekly or fortnightly sessions.
Sessions are 50 minutes long and the cost of each session is £70.
Qualifications and Training
Qualifications and Continuing Professional Development (CPD)
♦ BA (Hons) Person-Centred Counselling and Psychotherapy
♦ BSc (Hons) Health Sciences
♦ Internal Family Systems – Level One
♦ Cognitive Behavioural Therapy
♦ Online and Telephone Counselling
♦ Narcissistic Abuse
♦ Anger Management Training
♦ Menopause Training
♦ Body Image Training
I am a registered member of the British Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) and work within its ethics and codes. I engage in on-going professional development.
Contact Me
If you have any questions or you would like to book a free 15-minute consultation, please contact me
About Me
May nasme is Nabeelah Khan-Cheema and I’m a counsellor and IFS therapist. However, before I became a therapist I worked as an Orthoptist (eyes) in the NHS, for over 30 years. So, how did I get from Orthoptics to a career in counselling? Read More…