Zulaikha Zulkifli

Pre-licensed Counsellor

Making a decision to see a professional therapist during my early twenties was a pinnacle in my journey of self-discovery and growth. My experience in therapy opened my eyes to the world of psychology; I discovered how complex and fascinating our human mind and behaviors can be. In therapy, I learned how my thoughts, emotions and behaviours were interconnected.

I decided to pursue my degree in Psychology at Taylor’s University. After getting my degree, worked as a human resource executive for a local company. However, I was still keen to explore psychology “in action” so I spent the next three years working as the office manager cum clinical assistant of KIN & KiDS. I was the first point of contact for clients who are seeing therapy and psychological our services. My work experience in KIN & KiDS solidified my decision to join the helping profession and I decided to pursue my Masters in Counselling at the HELP University. I have been able to draw from both my experience in a corporate setting as well as in a clinical outpatient setting in my work with clients as a counsellor-in training. As a human resource executive, I learned to consider different perspectives and work collaboratively with employees of all ages and culture. I also witness the daily struggles of new employees struggling to fit in and adjust to the work culture. I also saw how many existing employees, including those with a strong potential, struggled with time management, planning and organizing their workload and deadlines, procrastination, and managing their emotions under stressful situations. These problems affected their work relationships as well as performance. I later learned that employees who struggle with these problems often lack the self-regulatory or “executive function” skills to manage the demands of their daily life.

Prior to starting my clinical internship at KIN & KiDS, I completed my practicum at HELP University’s Center for Psychological and Counselling Services (CPCS). At the CPCS, I worked with clients with anxiety, depression, family and romantic relationship issues, academic and career problems. I also offer executive function coaching for young adults to strengthen their self-regulatory skills so that they can improve their academic performance and work
productivity.

Making a decision to come in for therapy is the first brave step to change. If you decide to work in a therapy relationship with me, I will first aim to provide you with a safe and secure space for my clients so you can openly express your thoughts and feelings. I believe that no matter how old we are, we all want to be heard, seen and to be valued. In therapy, I hope you will feel that you are not alone in your struggles; that even though I cannot solve your problems for you, I will walk with you and help you as you navigate through your difficult issue, and hopefully, we can both gain insights into your situation and discover the strengths within you to build resilience.

Education & Professional Licenses/ Accreditation

Master in Counselling, HELP University, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Bachelor of Psychology (Hons), Taylor’s University, Selangor, Malaysia – First Class Honours

Email

zulaikha@kinandkids.com