As an introduction of our practice, we’ve decided to feature a therapist from Centered Therapy each week. Today, we’ll start with Dr. Fyeqa Sheikh, a licensed clinical psychologist who joined CTC earlier this year.
Who is your ideal client?
My ideal client is an older child, teenager, or young adult who is ready and motivated to make a significant change in his or her life. Those individuals who realize that there may be aspects of their lives that they would like to improve and are open to taking the steps to change their current situation are the clients that I work best with. Furthermore, I enjoy engaging with clients who are willing to take an active and collaborative approach to making life changes.
Talk about your therapy style and who you are as a therapist.
My therapy approach is a combination of relational and action-oriented styles. I believe that forming a trusting relationship between the client and therapist is essential to the change process. Utilizing a collaborative approach, I offer feedback and concrete strategies that the client can utilize outside of session to improve his or her life.
What self-care advice do you have? How can someone improve their self-care?
I believe the key to self-care is finding balance in your life, whether that be work-life balance, balance in your diet, managing stress effectively, or balance between rest and activity. Self-care is allowing your body and mind to take a break and engaging in activities that you enjoy. Self-care can also involve exercise, eating healthy, and ensuring that sure you get an adequate amount of sleep.
What recommendations do you have to decrease the stress of parenting and homelife?
Being organized, managing your time effectively, and accepting imperfections can greatly help decrease the stress of homelife. It can be difficult to balance both the demands of work and home/family life, therefore, it is important to set reasonable expectations at home and utilize your time effectively.
What do you do for your own self-care?
Personally, I enjoy running long distances and being mindful during this activity. While running, I’m able to clear my mind of all stressful thoughts and focus on my favorite music while also observing the sights outside. I also enjoy spending time with my family.
What do you like about being a therapist?
I enjoy witnessing positive change in individuals and take satisfaction in being part of the change process. Helping people improve their lives is gratifying and I wholeheartedly enjoy providing feedback and support to clients in times of need.