Growing up with a counsellor father and super-supportive mom, it is almost innate for Fathiah to be the person her friends go to when they need extra support. She knew from early on that there is much reward in being the person others could count on. In school, she was the official “psychology executive” aka counsellor for her friends and she was even awarded Young Counsellor Hilir Perak in 2011.
To those who know her, it is no surprise that she’s now taking this passion into a professional field. Of course, the little girl who organized counselling programs in schools as well as camps would pursue a career in psychology and a Masters in Counselling.
“Each person functions differently. Understanding my patient’s psyche is essential to be a great counsellor. For example, some girls may feel slightly different when they first get their period, thus effecting their concentration in school. It is important to provide them a solution but it’s just as necessary to meet their needs with empathy.”
Getting a higher qualification in counselling has been in Fathiah’s bucket list for as long as she can remember. As a counsellor, she hopes to reach a wider pool of people who needs guidance or a listening ear. When it comes to helping others, her philosophy has always been: high quality healthcare at a minimum cost with maximum outcome.
Individuals like Fathiah, who meets each challenge with empathy and a listening ear, is what we need in our society. That is why Kotex SheCan Fund has chosen her as one of the winners. With the extra resources now allotted to her, she can further pursue her passion of counselling by signing up for her course in Masters of Counselling.
