Jisha Syriac

A conversation with Jisha Syriac

• What led you to choose psychotherapy or counselling as a profession?

  I was searching for my calling and I explored different career paths to find meaning. From fashion to IT to HR. For over 12 years I volunteered in Church and underprivileged schools in India. With all the experience, the common area which I enjoyed and felt I belong was in the space of being for another person who needs support. That realisation lead to my studies in psychotherapy/counselling.

• Which philosophical approaches have influenced your professional development?

  My professional development as a counsellor is influenced by a combination of philosophical approaches, including humanism, existentialism, and person-centred therapy. These philosophies emphasise empathy, personal growth, and the inherent worth of the individual, aligning with my approach to providing a safe, supportive space for clients. I am also influenced by cognitive-behavioural therapy, which helps clients challenge negative thinking patterns, and systems theory, which highlights the interconnectedness of individuals within their environments. Drawing from these philosophies, I aim to offer flexible, integrative support tailored to each client’s unique needs.

• Which particular aspects of health or the human journey are you interested in?

  I am particularly interested in supporting individuals who have faced difficult pasts but are determined and motivated to thrive in the future, both for themselves and those around them. These individuals may be experiencing stress, grief, or relational challenges, and I am passionate about helping them navigate these struggles to create a more positive, fulfilling future. My focus is on empowering people to heal, grow, and develop resilience, so they can build meaningful relationships, find purpose, and achieve well-being, ultimately transforming their lives and the lives of those they care about.

• What methods do you use?

  According to the unique need of the clients I use techniques from Person-Centered Therapy, Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT), Schema Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Attachment-Based Therapy, Art Therapy Techniques, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), Mindfulness-Based Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Psychodynamic Therapy, Family Systems Therapy, Gestalt Therapy and Narrative Therapy.

• When do you think the client will start to feel that progress is being made?

  Clients often feel progress when they gain clarity about their challenges, experience small wins, or feel relief after sharing their thoughts in a safe space. Noticing improved emotions, relationships, or new perspectives can also signal change. Progress varies, but regular reviews help clients recognise their growth and build confidence in the process. I also conduct periodic assessment using tools like K-10.

• How has therapy made a difference in your life?

  Therapy has helped me find clarity, self-awareness, and resilience. It provided a safe space to explore my emotions, understand myself better, and develop healthier ways to handle challenges. Through the process, I’ve experienced personal growth, improved relationships, and a deeper sense of purpose, which inspired me to support others on their journeys.

• What do you like most about being a therapist?

  What I love most about being a therapist is the privilege of walking alongside clients on their journey of healing and growth. Witnessing their resilience, celebrating their breakthroughs, and being a part of their transformation is deeply fulfilling and inspires me every day.

• Do you ever have 'bad hair' days?

  Absolutely! Just like everyone else, I have days that don’t go as planned. However, I’ve learned to embrace those moments, practice self-compassion, and focus on what I can control. It also reminds me of the importance of being authentic and relatable, both in life and in my work as a therapist.

• What do you think is the most significant problem we face, in the world today?

  From a counsellor's perspective, one of the most significant problems we face today is the growing prevalence of disconnection—from ourselves, others, and the world around us. This disconnection often leads to loneliness, anxiety, depression, and a lack of meaning or purpose in life.
  
  Contributing factors include the fast pace of modern life, the overuse of technology, social media pressures, stigma around mental health, and a lack of access to affordable mental health care. These challenges can prevent people from seeking help or fostering meaningful relationships, which are crucial for emotional well-being.
  
  Counselling can play a pivotal role in addressing this issue by offering a safe, compassionate space for individuals to reconnect with themselves, build resilience, and develop healthy, authentic relationships with others.

• Can you share the name of a book, film, song, event or work of art that inspires you?

  As a counsellor, I find the Bible to be a profound source of inspiration. Its messages of hope, healing, and compassion resonate deeply with the work I do. Passages that emphasise love, forgiveness, and resilience offer a solid foundation for helping clients navigate difficult emotions and life challenges. The Bible provides both spiritual and practical guidance, encouraging individuals to find strength in adversity and peace in moments of turmoil. It supports my approach to counselling by reinforcing the importance of empathy, self-reflection, and personal growth.