Pathways to Healing
If you’re able to pay for therapy, our Pathways to Healing service offers you access to experienced therapists who understand trauma, abuse, and the cultural contexts that shape your healing journey.
When you choose Pathways to Healing, you’re not just investing in your own healing, you’re helping sustain our free services for those who cannot afford therapy.
Why Choose Pathways to Healing?
You can choose your therapist based on their experience and specialisms. All our therapists have worked with Nour and share our commitment to trauma-responsive, culturally attuned care. They receive regular clinical supervision, ensuring the highest quality of care.
Sessions are available online or in person, for as long as you need them, with no fixed limit. We offer therapy in multiple languages including English, Arabic, Urdu, Bengali, and others.
Our therapists charge different rates based on their experience and specialisms, ranging from £40 to £80 per session.
How It Works
Getting the support you deserve is simple. We’ve designed a caring process to help you start your healing journey.
Step 1
Browse our therapists
Look through therapist bios below. Each profile includes qualifications, specialisms, languages, and rates.
Step 2
Book your initial assessment
Contact us via counselling@nour.org.uk with your choice of therapist. We will guide you through the registration process.
Step 3
Begin your therapy
Sessions are typically 50 minutes, weekly. Book and pay via a secure online payment platform.
Our Therapists
Meet our compassionate team of qualified, trauma-responsive therapists dedicated to supporting your mental health and wellbeing.
Sumra Nadeem
Counsellor MBACP
Biography
I am a qualified counsellor at Nour with a Level 4 Diploma in Therapeutic Counselling and over eleven years of experience supporting children, young people, and families within educational settings. My background in both teaching and therapy gives me a strong understanding of child development, emotional wellbeing, and the wider systems that influence mental health.
I work in a trauma-informed and person-centred way, offering a safe, confidential, and non-judgmental space where clients feel heard and respected. I support individuals experiencing anxiety, emotional dysregulation, loss, family challenges, low self-esteem, and the effects of past trauma. My focus is on helping clients gain insight, build practical coping strategies, and develop lasting resilience.
My experience as a teacher enables me to recognise how emotional difficulties can impact learning, relationships, and daily life. I am confident in safeguarding procedures, risk assessment, and collaborative work with other professionals to ensure ethical and appropriate support.
Outside of my professional role, I enjoy reading, swimming, cycling, and staying active through gym training and kickboxing. Maintaining balance in my own life supports the calm and reflective presence I bring to my practice.
At Nour, I am committed to working with compassion and integrity, supporting individuals to move forward with greater confidence and emotional clarity.
Qualifications:
- Level 4 Diploma in Therapeutic Islamic Counselling
- English, Urdu
£40 per session
Wajeeha Mahmood
Counsellor MBACP
Biography
I am an Islamic counsellor who truly believes in the power of creating spaces where heartfelt conversation can flow with compassion and honesty.
I’m committed to supporting individuals on their journey towards clarity, a place where you can open up without judgment and find some mental and spiritual breathing space.
At Nour, I lead our ‘Walk and Talk’ sessions, I love these because it invites you to step away from the chaos of daily life to find stillness within the tranquility of nature.
I have a soft spot for poetry and art, because when vocalising falls short, a few lines of poetry, grabbing some colours and playing with textures can provide a gentle, profound bridge to self discovery.
I believe my work is rooted in empathy with a deep desire to help you reconnect with your spirit. Working through the difficulty together so you can find your way back to a place of peace and inner harmony.
Qualifications:
- BSc Psychology
- Level 4 Diploma in Therapeutic Islamic Counselling
- English, Urdu
£40 per session
Laura Cullen
Counsellor MBACP
Biography
I hold a Level 4 CPCAB Diploma in Therapeutic Counselling from Stephen Maynard & Associates, working within a psycho-spiritual model. I offer one-to-one counselling for adults, available both in person and online.
Much of my career has been dedicated to supporting survivors of abuse, including domestic abuse, child abuse, and FGC. I am committed to creating a space where clients feel genuinely heard and valued — somewhere to bring their whole self, free from judgement or blame.
Relationships are at the heart of my work. I am passionate about helping clients nurture meaningful connections — with themselves and with those around them. My approach is person-centred and collaborative, and I bring a growing understanding of neurodiversity to my practice.
I draw inspiration from nature and the natural world, finding that the lessons woven through life’s cycles offer a quiet wisdom that threads through the therapeutic process. As a Muslim, a mother, and a pet parent, I bring my humanness to this work — just as I invite my clients to do the same.
Qualifications:
- Level 4 Diploma in Therapeutic Islamic Counselling
- English
£40 per session
Salma Begum
Counsellor MBACP
Biography
Coming Soon!
- English, Bengali (Sylheti)
£40 per session
Fayrouz Sirai
Counsellor MBACP
Biography
Coming Soon!
- English, French, Arabic
£40 per session
Tahsin Khan
Counsellor MBACP MNCPS (Acc.)
Biography
I have always been passionate about understanding the human story, and my journey into psychotherapeutic counselling was born from a desire to support individuals on a deeper level, facilitating profound personal growth and emotional healing.
I hold a Level 5 Professional Diploma in Psychotherapeutic Counselling and work using an Integrative Approach. This means I draw from different types of therapy to support you in a way that fits your needs.
My work is rooted in a Person-Centred approach, where warmth, empathy, and creating a safe space are at the heart of our sessions. When you need to manage everyday challenges, I use Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) to gently support you in healthier ways of coping. If you’re ready to explore deeper patterns or past experiences, I also use Psychodynamic therapy to help us understand how these may be affecting you and shaping your present world.
I am experienced in supporting individuals who are feeling emotionally overwhelmed or facing depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, or loss. I understand that everyone’s story is different, and I’m committed to offering support that is genuinely tailored to your circumstances and personal goals.
Creating a safe space where you feel grounded and supported ensures we are always moving at a pace that you are comfortable with. Whether you’re looking for short‑term, solution-focused therapy or deeper, long‑term healing, I am here to provide a sanctuary of compassion. I believe that empathy is at the heart of meaningful change, and I am committed to walking alongside you as you move towards greater clarity, connection, and peace.
Qualifications
- Level 5 Diploma in Psychotherapeutic Counselling
- BSc (Hons) Psychology
- Level 2 Certificate in Islamic Counselling & Psychology
- Level 1 Certificate in Islamic Approaches to Psychology and Psychological Therapy
- English, Bengali (Sylheti & Shuddo Bangla)
£40 per session
Viquarunisa Safder (Nisa)
Counsellor MBACP
Biography
I’m Nisa, a BACP-registered psychotherapist based in North London, offering professional counselling and psychotherapy for individuals and couples in a calm, confidential and supportive environment.
Life can feel overwhelming, and it’s not always easy to manage our struggles alone. I offer a safe, compassionate space where we can explore your thoughts, feelings and experiences together, at a pace that feels right for you. Whether you’re navigating anxiety, emotional overwhelm, trauma, relationship difficulties, life transitions, or a desire for personal growth, therapy is tailored to each individual, honouring your lived experiences, values and boundaries.
My approach is collaborative and culturally sensitive, shaped by my diverse background and over 20 years of experience in education and leadership, which has deepened my understanding of the emotional challenges people face across different life stages. I hold a Level 4 Diploma in Therapeutic Counselling and use an integrative approach drawing on Person-Centred, Psychodynamic, and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), offering evidence-based support tailored to your needs.
I have experience working with individuals and couples through organisations such as Sakoon Counselling, Nour, ICounselling, and Place2Be, and I am committed to ongoing professional development to ensure my practice remains ethical, informed and responsive to the evolving needs of my clients.
Reaching out takes courage, and it would be an honour to walk alongside you on your journey toward clarity, self-acceptance and well-being.
Qualifications:
- Level 4 Diploma in Therapeutic Counselling
- English, Punjabi, Urdu
£60 per session
Sophia Khan
Psychotherapist MBACP
Biography
I am a BACP-registered counsellor, who has worked with abuse and trauma for a number of years in a variety of settings. I have worked with a wide range of client groups from diverse backgrounds.
I am an integrative therapist, which means I draw on a range of therapeutic approaches to tailor my work to each client’s unique needs. My practice is grounded in a trauma-informed, Islamic, and compassion-focused framework.
I believe healing happens in safe relationships. Therapy with me is centered on safety, warmth, trust and compassion. Whatever stage of the journey you are at, you deserve support that honours both your strength and your pain.
Healing from abuse is not just about surviving what happened — it’s about reclaiming your voice, your safety, and your sense of self. I’ve supported clients struggling with a range of issues including anxiety, PTSD, shame, grief, low self-esteem, relationship struggles, hypervigilance, and a deep sense of disconnection.
I can support you in understanding your feelings and experiences, exploring recurring patterns, while empowering you with tools and techniques to help you cope with life’s difficulties and build resilience.
Outside of my work, I find balance and grounding through walks in nature, exploring new places through travel, being near the sea, or curling up with a good book.
Qualifications:
- Level 5 Diploma in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
- Level 4 Diploma in Therapeutic Counselling
- English, Bengali (Sylheti & Shuddo Bangla), Urdu & Hindi
£80 per session
Waheeda Islam
Psychotherapist, Clinical Supervisor & Clinical Hypnotherapist MNCPS (Acc.) MBACP GMBPsS PGCert DIPCHyp
Biography
As a psychotherapist, hypnotherapist, and clinical supervisor, I’ve spent years walking alongside survivors of trauma, abuse, and life’s most challenging experiences.
I work primarily with trauma survivors; people who have experienced abuse, violence, difficult childhoods, or other overwhelming life experiences. This includes professionals, those in leadership roles, and people in various work environments who are processing their experiences whilst navigating workplace pressures.
Together, we’ll explore your inner world with compassion and understanding. I’ll help you make sense of your experiences and reconnect with your authentic self through the warmth of genuine, heart-centred connection.
I understand how trauma affects your life, including effects on your body and nervous system, and work with your body’s natural wisdom at your own healing pace. I tailor my approach using art, writing, guided visualisations and other creative ways to work deeply with what you bring, using tools that you connect with. The work focuses on the whole of you, mind, body, heart and spirit.
When I’m not supporting clients, I serve as Chief Executive of Nour. I’m also a published contributor to a book on intercultural supervision, and I am currently undertaking an MSc in Creative Writing for Therapeutic Purposes.
I’m a poet at heart, deeply connected to all things soulful, a devoted reader, and a nature lover to my core. You’ll often find me reflecting or with a pen in hand, lost in a book, walking in nature or at home with my two cats; moments that ground me and remind me of life’s quiet beauty.
My profound connection to the natural world, literature, spirituality and poetry enriches how I listen to and understand the human heart.
What continues to move me, even after all these years, is the extraordinary courage it takes to be vulnerable; to share your pain, your dreams, your hidden truths. It’s a sacred trust that reminds me daily why I was called to do this work.
Qualifications:
- BSc (hons) Psychology
- Level 4 Diploma in Therapeutic Islamic Counselling
- Level 5 Diploma in Psychotherapeutic Counselling
- Level 4 Diploma in Clinical Hypnotherapy
- Postgraduate Certificate in Clinical Supervision
- MSc Creative Writing for Therapeutic Purposes (ongoing)
- English
£80 per session
Sandra Ortiz
Psychotherapist, Relationship & Psychosexual Therapist, Family Constellations Facilitator MBACP MNCPS (Accr.) CORST (4164)
Biography
I am a Counsellor, Psychotherapist, Relationship, and Psychosexual Therapist, as well as a Systemic Constellation Therapy Facilitator. I view therapy as a sacred trust (an amanah) where heartfelt conversation can unfold with honesty, compassion, and dignity. I offer a reflective and steady presence where you can speak freely and explore your inner world without fear of judgment. My intention is to walk alongside you as you seek clarity, emotional balance, and a deeper sense of peace within yourself, your relationships, and your relationship with life.
In my work, I honour the whole person, recognizing that mind, body, heart, and soul are deeply interconnected. I aim to create a space where your beliefs, culture, and lived experience are held with care and sensitivity, a space that respects your values, your worldview, and your life story.
Alongside individual therapeutic work, I bring an awareness of systemic and family constellation perspectives. I recognise that many of our struggles do not begin with us alone, but are shaped by family dynamics, generational patterns, and unspoken loyalties. With gentleness and respect, we can begin to understand these wider influences, allowing insight, release, and a renewed sense of inner alignment.
I have experience supporting individuals and couples through emotional difficulties, relational challenges, life transitions, and questions of identity and intimacy. I believe healing unfolds gradually, through presence, reflection, and the courage to meet oneself with compassion. My hope is that through our work together, you may rediscover your inner steadiness, strengthen your sense of self, and move forward with greater clarity, trust, and ihsan in your daily life.
Qualifications
- BSs Psychology, Counselling and Therapy
- Postgraduate Diploma in Health Psychology
- Level 4 Diploma in Therapeutic Islamic Counselling
- Level 6 Diploma in Relationship and Psychosexual Therapy
- Diploma in Systemic Constellations and Trauma Integration
- Diploma Women’s Sexual Therapy
- English, Spanish
£80 per session
Ramzia Akbari
Psychotherapist & Clinical Supervisor MBACP
Biography
Coming Soon!
- English, Farsi
£80 per session
Yasemin Irak
Psychotherapist & Cognitive Behavioural Therapist, MBACP MBABCP
Biography
Coming soon!
- English, Turkish
£80 per session
Tahirah Yasin
Psychotherapist, EMDR Therapist & Clinical Supervisor MBACP(Accred) MNCPS(Accred)
Biography
Coming soon!
- English, Punjabi, Urdu
£80 per session
Khalida Haque
Psychotherapist, EMDR Therapist & Clinical Supervisor MBACP(Reg) SNCPS(Acc.)
Biography
I am a Senior Accredited Psychotherapist, EMDR practitioner and Clinical Supervisor with more than 15 years’ experience across the voluntary sector, private practice and community mental health services. Since joining Nour in March 2011 as a counsellor, I progressed to managing counselling teams and now continue to support the organisation as a clinical supervisor.
I have also held leadership roles at Schools Counselling Partnership and Mind CHWF and, alongside strategic-level positions, maintain an active clinical practice grounded in trauma-focused, culturally responsive and Islamically informed approaches.
My training in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing) supports people in processing traumatic or distressing experiences in a safe and structured way. I work with those affected by single-incident trauma, complex or developmental trauma, domestic abuse, anxiety, depression and long-standing relational difficulties. Painful experiences can sometimes feel as though they are still happening in the present or remain “stuck” despite time passing. EMDR helps the brain and body reprocess memories so they feel less overwhelming. Throughout our work together, safety, pacing and consent remain central, ensuring therapy unfolds at a rhythm that feels manageable and containing. Beginning therapy can feel daunting, and creating trust and steadiness is always our starting point.
My experience includes supporting Muslim clients and those navigating identity, intergenerational dynamics and the impact of migration and culture. I am also the author of Islamically Integrated Psychotherapy and Domestic Abuse (Routledge, 2025), reflecting my commitment to culturally and ethically grounded therapeutic practice.
Outside of professional life, I enjoy writing, travelling, hiking and time in nature. Hosting reflective retreats and leading guided tours has shaped my belief in creating spaces that foster connection and growth. Clients often describe me as warm, steady and gently challenging, offering a reflective and containing space in which meaningful healing can unfold.
Qualifications:
- BSc(Hons) Biomedical Sciences
- PG Dip Counselling and Psychotherapy
- MA Counselling and Psychotherapy
- Diploma Clinical Supervision
- EMDR Parts 1-3 (EMDR Association UK – Sandi Richman)
- English, Bengali (Sylheti & Shuddo Bangla)
£80 per session
Zubaida Lohiya
Psychotherapist & Clinical Supervisor MBACP (Accred)
Biography
I am a BACP-accredited Psychotherapist with a Master’s degree in Integrative Counselling and Psychotherapy and over a decade of experience. I am also trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing) and hold a diploma in Integrative Supervision.
I have worked across organisations including Mind, Nour, and the NHS, supporting clients with anxiety, depression, PTSD, OCD, and complex trauma, including domestic violence, sexual abuse, and suicidal ideation.
My approach is warm, collaborative, and integrative, with a strong focus on working with kindness and compassion to help you find yourself again. I provide validation, understanding, and practical strategies to help clients navigate their difficulties. I primarily draw on a person-centred approach, developing relational depth to build trust and create a safe, supportive space. I also incorporate psychodynamic thinking to explore early life experiences and formative patterns, and CBT techniques to support meaningful, lasting change. I tailor my approach according to the client’s needs, with sensitivity to culture, identity, and personal experience.
I offer both counselling and supervision in a confidential, non-judgemental environment, supporting personal growth and professional development. I am committed to ethical, inclusive practice, working in line with BACP standards, safeguarding.
Outside of my professional work, I am passionate about poetry and reflection. I love Urdu poetry for its beauty and emotional depth, and I am inspired by Rumi’s writings, particularly his line, “The wound is the place where the Light enters you,” and his poem “The Guest House,” which reminds us to welcome all emotions—joy, sorrow, and everything in between. These reflections inform my work, encouraging curiosity, compassion, and acceptance in both therapy and supervision.
Qualifications:
- BSc (Hons) Psychology
- MA Integrative Counselling & Psychotherapy
- Diploma in Integrative Supervision of Individuals & Groups
- Trained in EMDR (EMDR Academy, EMDR Europe–recognised training)
- English, Urdu
£80 per session
Services for Organisations
We work with solicitor firms, charities, community organisations, and workplaces to provide trauma-informed therapeutic support.
Whether you’re a legal practice supporting clients through difficult proceedings, a charity working with survivors, or an employer wanting to support staff wellbeing, we can create a bespoke package that meets your needs.
Our services include individual therapy for your clients or employees, clinical supervision for frontline staff, and training in trauma-responsive practice.
Get in touch
Email counselling@nour.org.uk
Clinical Supervision
We offer clinical supervision for qualified therapists and counsellors who work with trauma and abuse. Our clinical supervisors are experienced trauma specialists who have worked extensively with Nour and provide monthly supervision to all Pathways to Healing therapists.
They bring deep expertise in trauma-responsive, culturally attuned practice and understand the unique challenges of working with survivors from minoritised communities
Get in touch
Email counselling@nour.org.uk
Frequently Asked Questions
About Pathways to Healing
Why should I pay for therapy when Nour offers free counselling?
If you're able to pay, choosing Pathways to Healing means you get to select your own therapist based on their experience and specialisms, whilst also supporting our free services for those who cannot afford therapy. Your contribution helps us continue offering free counselling to survivors facing financial barriers.
How is this different from the free counselling service?
Pathways to Healing offers choice of therapist, typically shorter waiting times and open-ended therapy which does not have a limit on sessions. The quality of care is equally high in both services, all therapists are experienced, qualified, and receive clinical supervision.
Can I still access this if I'm on a low income?
Pathways to Healing is designed for people who can afford to contribute to their therapy. If you're struggling financially, our free counselling service may be more appropriate. Get in touch and we can discuss which service would work best for you.
About the Therapy
How do I choose a therapist?
Read through the bios above. Think about what specialisms might be helpful for you, whether language or cultural background matters to you, and what rate feels manageable. Trust your instinct about who you feel drawn to. You can also contact us for guidance.
Can I switch therapists if it's not working?
Yes. The relationship with your therapist is really important. If it's not feeling right after a few sessions, let us know and we can help you find a better match.
How often are the sessions?
Sessions are weekly on a day and time mutually agreed with your therapist. Each sessions is 50mins long.
How long will I need therapy?
This varies for everyone. Some people find up to 6 months helpful, others benefit from longer-term work. You and your therapist will discuss this together and you're in control of when you finish.
Are sessions online or in person?
This depends on the therapist. Most therapists offer online sessions, and some offer in-person appointments in London. You can get in touch with us to find out what your chosen therapist can offer.
Is it confidential?
Yes, with very limited exceptions (if there's immediate significant risk to you or someone else, and some other exceptions). Your therapist will explain confidentiality fully in your first session.
Practical Questions
How do I book?
Get in touch with us via counselling@nour.org.uk and we can help facilitate the connection. If you click the booking link under the therapist of your choice, your default email app will open with this counselling email. Send us the name of your choice of therapist and when you would like to start, and we can take it from there.
How do I pay?
Payments are taken when you book each session. There is an option to block book sessions. Payment is made via card through a secure payment page. If you have any questions about this contact counselling@nour.org.uk
What if I need to cancel a session?
We ask for 48 hours' notice for cancellations where possible. Any less notice will mean we cannot refund you
Can I use health insurance?
Currently we cannot provide this option for payments.
Do you offer reduced rates?
Some therapists may have limited reduced-rate slots available. If cost is a significant barrier but you prefer the choice offered by Pathways to Healing, discuss this with your chosen therapist or contact us to explore options. We cannot guarantee reduced rates.
For Organisations
How much does organisational support cost?
This depends on what you need, number of sessions, number of people, type of support. Get in touch for a conversation and we'll provide a tailored quote.
Can we choose specific therapists for our clients/staff?
Yes. We can discuss which therapists might be the best fit based on the needs of the people you're supporting.
Is it confidential for our clients/staff?
Yes. Therapy is confidential. We can provide general information about usage and outcomes for your reporting purposes, but not details about individual sessions.
How quickly can you start supporting our clients/staff?
This depends on therapist availability and your specific needs. Get in touch and we'll discuss timescales.