A warm welcome
Hi there! I'm Shamim, a friendly British-born Counsellor now living in sunny Cascais. I work with children and adolescents (7-18 years old) and their families.
As a mother, I've personally experienced both the challenges and joys of parenthood and expatriate life. Moving my family across different countries meant adapting to new cultures and educational systems while honouring diverse values and traditions.
I am passionate about helping young people grow and tackle whatever challenges come their way. Through my own life journey, I've had to find my own path too. I would never have imagined when I began my career in corporate roles across Europe and Asia that my most rewarding work would be supporting young people.
Over the years, I've gained lots of hands-on experience as a school counsellor and mental health professional. I've helped kids and teens through all sorts of tough times, and I understand how feeling sad, worried or confused can make it hard to learn and enjoy life. I've also volunteered with charities and worked on an international suicide prevention hotline, which has taught me so much about supporting mental health.
MY QUALIFICATIONS
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Masters of Counselling (Distinction, Monash University)
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Chartered Accountant (CIMA)
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BSC Mathematics (Hons 2.1 University of Machester )
PROFESSIONAL TRAINING
I am passionate about learning and staying current with the profession's latest research and sharing the newest tools with my clients.
Advanced certifications in
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BPS (British Psychological Society) Approved Certificate in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) for children and adolescents
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BPS (British Psychological Society) Approved Certificate in Integrated CBT for Working with Adolescents
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Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
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Unified Protocol: A Transdiagnostic CBT Treatment
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Dialectical behavioural Therapy (DBT) for Adolescents and Families
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Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT): Attachment Science in Practice
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Motivational Interviewing (MI)
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Assessing and Managing Suicide Risk (AMSR)
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Mindfulness interventions
Membership of Professional Bodies Licensure & Registration
I am a registered member of the BACP (British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy) and am bound by the code of Ethics and practice demanded by the professional body while committed to ongoing professional development (CPD).
Meet Popcorn
I have a male hypoallergenic Maltese dog, Popcorn, who is my assistant. He lives in his playpen but always enjoys being petted or cuddled. Research shows that animals can provide significant mental health benefits, such as reducing anxiety, improving mood, and offering comfort.
