My name is Sanjidah and I started Psychotherabee in 2020 as a platform for sharing everything I learn about the mind in its infinite quirkiness. Humans are so complex and delicate, and I’m enjoying learning so much about the intricacies that make us who we are.
I am a psychotherapist and counsellor based in the South East of England, although I work with people all across the world thanks to technology. I predominantly work psychodynamically, but I pride myself on my awareness of various other modalities and my ability to provide tailored interventions to each client.
I have a wealth of experience working relationally, drawing on experience from places I have worked or volunteered for previously. I have and still do volunteer for numerous emotional support charities and in NHS psychiatric units. I have also provided counselling services in universities and charities.
Aside from my private practice as a psychotherapist, I am a freelance researcher. The most recent research projects I have been involved in have focused on domestic abuse, violence against women and girls, drug and alcohol services, and health inequalities in the UK. I completed my PhD in Psychology; my thesis focused on supporting vulnerable victims in the criminal justice system. Based on the findings from my PhD, I have founded a not-for-profit organisation to support vulnerable victims and witnesses in the UK.
Outside of my career, I enjoy reading; my favourite genres are historical fiction and, of course, psychology. I am also a published author and occasionally dabble in arts and crafts. I also play the guitar, piano, cello, and write (and sometimes release!) songs.
All commissioned artwork on this website is by Joe Inkpen: facebook | twitter | instagram | youtube | website
Qualifications
PhD Psychology, Canterbury Christ Church University
Postgraduate Diploma in Psychodynamic Counselling and Psychotherapy, University of Brighton
BSc (Hons) Psychology, Canterbury Christ Church University
Level 3 Certificate in Counselling Skills
Level 2 Certificate in Child and Adolescent Mental Health
Level 2 Certificate in Understanding Autism
Publications
Islam, S. (In review). Understanding the impact of dogs supporting victims and witnesses: A mixed methods systematic review.
Spruin, E., Islam, S., Wornast, T., & Dempster, T. (2023). Examining the effects of animal-assisted therapy against standard treatment in a university setting. Pet Behaviour Science. https://doi.org/10.21071/pbs.vi14.15225
Islam, S., Spruin, E., & Fernandez, A. (2017). The benefits of therapy dogs on student wellbeing within a UK university. Psychology and Behavioral Science International Journal. https://doi.org/10.19080/PBSIJ.2017.07.555702.
Spruin, E., Dempster, T., Islam, S., & Raybould I. (2020). The effects of a therapy dog vs mindfulness vs a student advisor on student anxiety and well-being. Journal of Further and Higher Education. https://doi.org/10.1080/0309877X.2020.1804535
Conferences
18 June 2024
School of Psychology and Life Sciences Research Conference, Canterbury
I presented findings from the three studies carried out for my PhD research.
8-10 November 2023
British Psychological Society Division of Forensic Psychology, Belfast
I presented the findings from a study conducted for my PhD earlier that year and presented initial findings from a piece of research carried out that same week.
21 June 2022
Postgraduate Research Association Annual Conference, Canterbury
I presented the proposed studies for my PhD, including background information as to why this research is necessary.