About Nabeelah
Here is a little bit about me and my journey into therapy…
Why I Became a Therapist
My name is Nabeelah Khan-Cheema and I’m an Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapist and a psychotherapist. 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 becoming a therapist?
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. That experience stayed with me. It helped me see how much can shift when we have the right space to explore our thoughts and feelings with care.
This inspired me to change careers, enabling me to offer that same kind of support to others.
Cultural Identity
As a second-generation South Asian woman 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 therapy has sometimes carried stigma in Asian communities, I am encouraged by the growing number of women seeking support earlier and choosing not to wait until they reach crisis point.
It feels important to me to be part of a movement that helps normalise therapy and makes room for emotional wellbeing in a way that feels respectful and empowering.
My Approach to Therapy
My main approach is Internal Family Systems (IFS). This is a gentle and powerful model that helps us understand the different parts of ourselves. I was drawn to it because it goes beyond surface-level coping and supports healing at a deeper level.
What I love about IFS is that it encourages curiosity instead of judgement. It helps us build a relationship with the parts of ourselves that carry pain, fear, shame, or the need to keep everyone happy. When those parts feel heard and understood, real change can begin to happen.
Qualifications and Continuing Professional Development (CPD)
I am a fully qualified therapist and a registered member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP), and I work within its ethical framework and codes of practice.
Qualifications:
♦ BA (Hons) Person-Centred Counselling and Psychotherapy
♦ Internal Family Systems – Level One (90 Hours)
♦ BSc (Hons) Health Sciences
Alongside my core qualifications, I have completed CPD in many areas including Menopause, Body Image, Narcissistic Abuse, Anger Management, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Online and Telephone Counselling.
I am committed to ongoing professional development so that my work remains thoughtful, informed, and responsive to the needs of my clients.
Find Out More
Finding the right therapist is an important decision. That’s why I offer an initial phone call, to give us an opportunity to see whether working together feels like the right fit and for you to ask any questions.
About Me
My name is Nabeelah Khan-Cheema and I’m an Internal Family Systems (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…