Meet the CAPS Team

Dr. Tahira Haider

Head of Department

Education

PhD (Clin.Psych), PGDip (Psych), B.Soc.Sc (Psych), University of New England, MAPS, FCCLP, AHPRA-PSY000189619;
Clinical Psychologist, PsyBA | Clinical Psychologist Supervisor, PsyBA

Professional Interests

• Acceptance and Commitment Therapy
• Dialectical Behavioral Therapy
• Cognitive Behavioural Therapy
• Anxiety and stress management
• Creating campus-wide efforts and initiatives around student mental health and emotional wellness
• Developing new cutting-edge ways to deliver clinical services on our campus

Approach to Therapy

I believe that people’s stories are at the heart of my work as a psychologist.  I endeavor to help people gain new insight, understanding, and perspective on their experiences and personal narratives, mainly from a combination of mindful-cognitive, interpersonal, and developmental theoretical orientations. I use a combination of insight-oriented talk therapy and psychoeducational activities to help students build skills and understanding to master life’s challenges, explore their identity, discover resources, and support their success as students and individuals. I am also starting to explore western and non-western approaches to therapy.

Approach to Wellness

I try to constantly strive for an overriding sense of balance in my life. Things that help me achieve this are being active outside of work, family, meditation and walking/being in nature.

Rabia Sajjad

Operations Lead (Counseling & Psychological Services Department LUMS)

Education

MBA in Human Resource Management, VP Education at toastmaster club @ LUMS

Professional Interests:

Operational management
Process Improvement
•Policy and procedures development
Recourse management
• Team building & Conflict resolutions
• Efficiently Budget Management
• Superior problem solving and decision-making
• Strong soft skills as well as software expertise
• Focus on continuous learning

Approach to Management

Organizations like LUMS are a boon to the nation; they are developed and operate on a well-defined mission and vision. To back that vision, a strong support structure is required that defines and implements practices to keep it on track.
Continuous process improvement, along with the implementation of policies and procedures, paves the way for further progress. Management plays a significant role in this regard, promoting team participation and ownership. We must allow them to breathe freely and give them the confidence to nurture their self-esteem. I am of the opinion that human health is a priority, and as part of a key unit that deals with the well-being of the community, we consider it a religious responsibility.
 
Approach to wellness

Studies have shown that having a hobby can help improve your mental health. In fact, participating in such activities leads to an "upward cycle" of increased well-being. Some activities that make me feel energized and relaxed include traveling, walking, reading, listening to music, gardening, and cooking.

Sabeen Khan

Senior Student Counsellor /Student Engagement Specialist / Workshops & Social Media Coordinator

Education:                 
MS in Clinical and Counseling Psychology (Distinction), Beaconhouse National University, Lahore,                 
M.Sc in Applied Psychology, University of the Punjab, Lahore, B.A in Psychology and Social Work, Queen Mary College, Lahore                 
                  
Professional Interest:

• Acceptance and Commitment Therapy            
• Dialectical Behavioral Therapy                 
   
• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy                 
   
• Relationship Concern                 
   
• Research addressing various fields of Psychology                 
   
• Anxiety and Stress management     
   
• Creating healthier social and learning environment.     
   
• Client Centered Therapy     
   
• Assertiveness Skills

Approach to Therapy:

When working with students, I approach counseling mainly from an interpersonal perspective, drawing from various other theoretic styles as needed. Initial therapeutic process starts with collaborative development of treatment plans with my clients after careful assessment of presenting concerns, personal strengths and weaknesses, and coping styles. I strive to foster a democratic and trusting therapeutic relationship that lays the foundation for clients to explore their experiences in a brave space. I operate from a brief psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral approach; I also know each client is their own person, so I use other approaches such as acceptance-commitment therapy, dialectical-behavior therapy, solutions-focused approaches, and others, as needed. The greatest cornerstone of my style is listening closely and curiously. I, sometimes, use humor because laughing can instill hope. I am intentional in my effort to see and help my clients see their own strengths, resilience, and to feel worthy, hopeful, and empowered.     
 

Approach to Wellness:

I believe that wellness starts with our basic human needs being met (food, water, adequate sleep, safety). I enjoy taking long walks, spending quality time with family and friends, traveling to various places. Even if I’ve never tried it, I’m always open to experiencing the newest, latest adventure which opens the door to a world of opportunities professionally and personally. Combining all those things together is the ultimate wellness for me.

Aiza Imtiaz

Student Counsellor

Education:     
MS Clinical Psychology, Center for Clinical Psychology, Punjab University, Lahore Expertise:

•Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)     
•Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)     
•Behavioral Therapy     
•Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy (REBT)     
•Gestalt TherapyPsychology     
•Family Therapy     

Commitment:

As a dedicated counselor, I am committed to the art of psychotherapy, which I view as a powerful vehicle for achieving better emotional and psychological functioning. In my practice, I emphasize the creation of a safe, non-judgmental, and empathetic space for my clients. I recognize that opening up about one's innermost thoughts and struggles can be a daunting task. Thus, I am dedicated to providing an environment where individuals feel heard, valued, and respected. This secure space becomes the catalyst for genuine personal growth.

Carl Rogers once wisely stated, "The curious paradox is that when I accept myself just as I am, then I can change." This quote underscores the essence of therapy - self-acceptance as the catalyst for positive transformation. My goal is to equip clients with the tools they need to navigate life's challenges, fostering self-awareness, agency, and effective coping skills.

In our partnership, I am here to guide and support you through the intricate path of self-exploration and personal growth. Together, we will work towards understanding, healing, and a more fulfilling life.

Strengths:

In my counseling practice, my approach to wellness extends far beyond the traditional boundaries of therapy. I believe that wellness encompasses not only mental and emotional health but also physical, social, sexual and spiritual well-being. I advocate for a holistic approach that acknowledges the intricate interconnectedness of these facets, understanding that they collectively contribute to an individual's overall sense of wellness. I recognize that healthy sexual relationships are integral to an individual's sense of satisfaction, self-esteem, and emotional balance. My approach encourages open and non-judgmental conversations around sexuality. To facilitate comprehensive wellness, I emphasize the importance of self-care and self-compassion. I work with my clients to develop a deeper understanding of their unique sexual needs and desires, promoting a healthy and fulfilling sexual life that aligns with their values and comfort levels.

Ultimately, my holistic approach to wellness is about equipping my clients with the knowledge, tools, and skills to lead balanced and fulfilling lives. It's a collaborative effort that empowers individuals to make choices that align with their wellness goals and helps them achieve a state of complete wellness in mind, body, spirit, and sexuality.

Hooria Jamil

Operations Co-Ordinator (Counseling & Psychological Services Department, LUMS)

Education:     
Bachelor’s in Professional Studies (Lahore College for Women University), Graphic Designing (Punjab University)     
Professional Interests:

• Operations Administration

• Team Building

• Focus on continuous learning

• Team Coordination

• Multi-tasking

Approach to Management:

Psychological services serve as a part of the management team; includes overseeing the operation of the counselling and psychological services unit including managing the quality of the services provided, assignment of staff responsibilities. Management plays a significant role in this regard with team participation and ownership. We must allow them to breathe well and give them the confidence to groom their self-esteem.     
Approach to Wellness:

Studies have shown that a good hobby can help in stress level and mental health. Taking parts in different activities leads to energetic and stress-free life. Different activities like: Painting, sketching, designing, outdoor sports and traveling makes me feel sparkling and happy.

Shaza Azam

Clinical Psychologist

Education

• MS in Clinical Psychology (Forman Christian College)
• BS in Clinical Psychology (University of the Punjab)

Therapy Approaches

• CBT
• DBT
• Client Centered Therapy
• Positive Psychology
• Humanistic therapy
• Existential therapy
• REBT

Approach to Therapy

My approach to therapy is integrative, reflective, and grounded in evidence-based practices such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and positive psychology. I view the therapeutic process as a Socratic dialogue;a collaborative exploration of thoughts, emotions, and behaviors where insight emerges through guided questioning and reflection. This approach encourages students to challenge rigid beliefs, tolerate emotional discomfort, and develop adaptive coping strategies that enhance self-regulation and resilience.

Through DBT’s balance of acceptance and change, students learn mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotion regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness, skills essential for managing daily stressors and building meaningful relationships. Each session aims to help individuals not only understand their internal experiences but also respond to them with awareness and compassion.

As Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi beautifully stated, “Happiness is not something that happens; it is a condition we must prepare for, cultivate, and defend.” I integrate this philosophy into my practice, empowering students to take an active role in shaping their mental well-being and discovering purpose in their challenges

Approach to Wellness

I believe wellness is the harmony between mind, body, and purpose. True well-being goes beyond simply managing symptoms — it’s about cultivating balance, gratitude, and self-awareness in everyday life. My approach focuses on helping individuals recognize their strengths, develop self-compassion, and live in alignment with their values.

To me, wellness is an intentional and conscious way of living — building habits that promote mental clarity, emotional stability, and a sense of inner fulfillment. Through this process, I aim to guide people toward not just coping with life’s challenges, but truly thriving — personally, professionally, and relationally.

Maryam Naeem

Student Counsellor

Education:

• MS (Clinical Psychology) Forman Christian College University, Lahore.
• BS (Hons.) Psychology, Government College University, Lahore.

Professional Interests:

• Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
• Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
• Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy (REBT)

Approach to Management:

The way I approach therapy is grounded in authenticity, compassion, and a deep respect for each person’s unique story. I aim to help individuals understand their emotions and reconnect with their inner strength through mindful awareness and gentle self-acceptance. I integrate evidence-based practices in a flexible and thoughtful way, ensuring that each session is both grounded in research and responsive to the individual’s lived experience. I deeply believe in the transformative power of therapy, in its ability to bring awareness, healing, and growth in ways that often unfold quietly yet profoundly.

“We cannot heal what we refuse to feel.” — Carl Jung

I strive to create a space where people feel genuinely seen and supported, a place where vulnerability is met with empathy and growth unfolds at its own pace.

Approach to Wellness

For me, wellness is about balance — finding calm in the everyday chaos and joy in the little things. I believe true well-being comes from slowing down, connecting with what nourishes the heart, and creating moments that make life feel full. Sometimes that means taking a quiet walk, sharing laughter with loved ones, watching a comforting movie, or simply enjoying a good meal. Wellness isn’t about perfection, it’s about presence, gentleness, and allowing yourself to breathe, pause, and be.

Hareem Jamil

Student Counsellor

Education:                 
BS (Hons.) in Psychology, MS Clinical Psychology

Professional Interests:

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

• Dialectical Behavior Therapy

• Acceptance and Commitment Therapy

• Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy

• Schema Focused Therapy

• Emotional Schema Therapy
• Meta-cognitive Therapy
• Research incorporating well-established evidence-based-therapeutic modalities on the indigenous clinical populations

Approach to Therapy:

In my opinion, therapy is most effective when the client feels truly heard and understood. Therefore, I place a high priority on a Socratic-driven, collaborative approach that upholds humanistic principles like empathy, non-judgment, unconditional positive regard, and sincerity. I really think that the client is the captain of their life's ship, and the therapist only serves as a lighthouse to illuminate the path. In order to ensure that my clients are developing the required life skills that will aid them in the long run, my approach involves having meaningful and beneficial dialogues that flow at their pace and understanding. I also think there is no one treatment that works for everyone, thus I practise eclectic psychotherapy that combines the most effective methods from today's evidence-based psychotherapies.

Approach to Wellness:

Although I think that prevention is preferable to treatment in some cases, I do agree that managing distress is important rather than trying to totally eradicate it. Additionally, I make an effort to practise what I preach and use stress-reduction methods like diaphragmatic breathing and mindfulness meditation in addition to good sleeping, eating, and exercising routines.

Maha Iftikhar

Clinical Assessment Specialist

Education:

• MS Clinical Psychology, Cum Laude, Forman Christian College and University, Lahore.
• BS (Hons.) Psychology, Forman Christian College and University, Lahore.

  Professional Interests:

• Cognitive Behavior Therapy
• Client Centered Therapy
• Solution Focused Therapy
• Assertiveness Training
• Anxiety and Stress Management
• Mindfulness
• Meta-Cognitive Therapy
• Acceptance and commitment therapy
• Schema Focused Therapy
• Behavior Therapy
• Relationship and family issues

Approach to Therapy:

Creating a safe place to ensure my clients feel safe, heard, and understood during the sessions. The focus is on psychoeducation to develop an insight and then through collaboration, a management plan is formulated based on therapeutic goals. Listening actively, a non-judgmental attitude, and being empathetic build up a strong therapeutic relationship which results in positive outcomes.     

Approach to Wellness:

Balance and time management is a key to wellness. I enjoy workouts, baking, cooking, music, watching sports, playing sports, and making mandala art. Spending time with my family and friends is therapeutic for me. Life has so much to offer so make the most of it.

Zainab Muazzam

Clinical Assessment Associate

Education:

• MS Clinical Psychology, Forman Christian College (A Chartered University), Lahore          
• BS (Hons.) in Psychology, Forman Christian College (A Chartered University), Lahore

  Professional Interests:

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapies
• Research
• Career Counseling
• Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy
• Humanistic Therapy
• Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)

Approach to Therapy:

Providing my clients a safe space, where they feel validated and receive unconditional positive regard. My approach to psychotherapy includes a careful assessment of my client’s personal strengths and weaknesses, and then choosing the best fit of therapeutic interventions for them accordingly. Drawing on from evidence-based techniques from a range of therapeutic modalities, helps clients gain insight and develop coping strategies which enables them to bring a positive change in their self-awareness and subsequently, in their interpersonal relationships. I believe this empowers clients to work on self-improvement and their psychological wellness.

Approach to Wellness:

Prioritizing self-care, gratitude, and spending quality time with my family and friends allows me to strike a much needed balance between work and life.

Momina Naveed

Student Counsellor 

Education:

• Master of Counselling, Monash University (Australia)

  Professional Interests:

• Person-centered therapy
• Humanistic therapy
• Trauma informed therapy
• Emotion focused therapy
• Existential therapies

Approach to Therapy:

I believe in making therapy a safe space where the client feels understood, seen, validated and heard. A space where I act as a mirror for someone to understand their own needs, wants, qualities, ambitions and values by tapping into their inner voice. My focus is on asking "What did you go through", rather than asking "What is wrong with you", in which I empathise with the impact of difficulties and struggles on them and attempt to provide safety, collaboration and empowerment. A quote that resonates with me is "We are all just searching for that tiny space, perhaps a hole, that gives us shelter from the difficulties of the world." I hope to provide an empathetic, caring atmosphere, where a person can feel genuine care and support. I work on inculcating self-love and helping clients steer their life in the direction aligned with their core values.

Approach to Wellness:

I believe humans have five main dimensions: Physical, emotional, social, spiritual and intellectual. Each of these have particular needs for wellness and overall healing can only be achieved by working on the needs for each of them. I attempt to provide tools for each of these dimensions and encourage clients to actively take steps that can give them overall healing.

Hania Batool

Student Counsellor

Education:

BS Applied Psychology, MS Clinical Psychology

Professional Interests:

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
• Dialectical Behavior Therapy
• Acceptance and Commitment Therapy
• Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy
• Schema Focused Therapy
• Emotional Schema Therapy
• Meta-cognitive Therapy
• Trauma Affect Regulation: Guide for Education & Therapy (TARGET)
• Research incorporating well-established evidence-based-therapeutic modalities on the indigenous clinical populations

Approach to Therapy:

I believe Therapy is all about holistic healing, maximizing your functionality, enhancing your resilience, and promoting post-traumatic growth after facing difficult and distressing situations in life. Therapy is the most effective when all factors at play have been taken into account and thoroughly explored so the client understands the past as well as a direction for the future. Hence, my therapeutic style is a collaborative and Socratic approach that fosters a sound foundation for my clients. A psychologist's warm presence and active efforts at creating a secure relationship with the client lead to exploration of all the elements, personal or otherwise, that hinder the client from reaching their full potential. Therefore, through my work, I help clients understand how their dysfunctional beliefs came to be and the key role they are playing in creating distress in the present day. My approach as a psychologist is centered around replacing and modifying these beliefs as well as hands-on skill development to manage and reduce stress. For this purpose, the session consists of some conversational elements as well as helpful practical activities. I am a firm believer in incorporating modern research into my work so the clients can receive the best possible treatment tailored to their needs.     
Approach to Wellness:

Wellness is an important dimension of human growth. As a clinical psychologist, I tap into all areas of my life with healthier practices to feel my best self and help my clients achieve the same. This includes stress management as well as enhancing resilience. I maintain a healthy diet, exercise and sleep hygiene for physical wellness and, breath work and meditation for psychological well-being. In the age of social media and constant stimulation, nature retreats along with these health practices create a grounding effect. The relationship with oneself becomes the most secure, as I’ve experienced firsthand. And that is the ultimate goal of my profession.

Hafsa Azam Butt

Student Counsellor

Education:

• MS Clinical Psychology, National University of Sciences and Technology (NUST), Islamabad.     
• BS (Hons.) Applied Psychology

Professional Interests:

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
• Dialectical Behavior Therapy
• Acceptance and Commitment Therapy
• Client-centered therapy
• Existential therapy
• Integrative therapy

Approach to Therapy:

My approach towards psychotherapy encompasses a wide range of therapeutic interventions. I draw on evidence-based techniques from a range of therapeutic modalities to help my clients gain insight and develop coping strategies. At the heart of my approach is the belief in the power of the therapeutic relationship that fosters positive change. I strive to provide a safe space to the clients by giving them a non-judgmental and empathetic space. “Emotion, which is suffering, ceases to be suffering as soon as we form a clear and precise picture of it– Spinoza”. I believe often times in therapy the real progress is to truly understand the meaning of unexplored ambiguities of certain experiences. The greater the exploration of the foggier territories, the clearer the pathway towards wellness becomes. I provide my clients with the space to understand and explore themselves along with building agency and working on being better equipped with skills to cope up with the challenges of life. My ultimate goal is to empower my clients to live fulfilling life’s and to support them on their journey towards growth and psychological wellness.     

Approach to Wellness:

I approach wellness from a holistic perspective encompassing the interconnectedness of the mind body and spirit. I am constantly exploring my own self and strive for authenticity and sense of fulfillment. I love to express myself in words creatively through poetry. I practice self-compassion and view my weaknesses as an opportunity for growth. Prioritizing self-care, gratitude and being in nature helps me build resilience and relish different experiences of life.

Qurat Ul Ain

Student Counsellor

Education:

• BS (Hons.) Applied Psychology, MS Clinical Psychology

Professional Interests:

• Psychological Assessments
• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
• Dialectical Behavior Therapy
• Acceptance and Commitment Therapy
• Solution-Focused Brief Therapy
• Trauma-Informed Care

Approach to Therapy:

My approach to therapy is holistic and client-centered, focusing on each individual’s uniqueness and recognizing that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to mental health. Drawing from a diverse range of therapeutic modalities, I tailor my approach to best meet the specific needs and preferences of my clients. I believe in cultivating an empathic therapeutic alliance to create a safe, non-judgmental space where individuals can explore their thoughts, emotions, and experiences while feeling validated, guided, and supported.

Approach to Wellness:

My approach to wellness is rooted in the belief that mental, emotional, and physical health are interconnected. I encourage clients to adopt a holistic view of their well-being by integrating practices like mindfulness, self-care, and healthy lifestyle choices to nurture all aspects of their lives. When I’m not in the office, I love connecting with friends and family and unwinding with a nice iced latte at my go-to coffeehouse.

Nuzhat Shaheen

Emergency Student Counsellor

Education:

• MSC, Applied Psychology University of Management and technology, Gold Medalist, Lahore.
• MS Clinical Psychology, Forman Christian College and University, Lahore.
• ADCP, Abaseen Institute of Medical and Modern Sciences, Islamabad.

  Professional Interests:

• Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)
• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
• Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)
• Exposure Therapy
• Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
• Trauma-Focused Therapy
• Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT)
• Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT)
• Gestalt Therapy
• Narrative Therapy
• Transpersonal Therapy
• Jungian Therapy
• Emotionally Focused Couple Therapy (EFT)

Approach to Therapy:

In my therapeutic work, I adopt a multimodal eclectic approach, integrating evidence-based methods from various schools of thought to suit the individual needs of my clients. I believe every client’s story is unique, and effective therapy requires both scientific rigor and genuine empathy. My goal is to provide a safe, nonjudgmental space where individuals can explore their emotions, confront challenges, and discover healthier ways of coping.

As a clinical psychologist, I am committed to ethical, high-quality care in accordance with APA guidelines. I stay updated on the latest psychological research and interventions to ensure that my practice remains dynamic and responsive to evolving needs. Whether working with individuals, couples, or groups, I strive to help clients reconnect with their strengths and cultivate emotional resilience.

Approach to Wellness:

For me, wellness extends far beyond the absence of illness—it represents a state of harmony between mind, body, and spirit. I strongly advocate for self-awareness, mindfulness, and compassionate living as essential components of emotional health. My passion lies in raising mental health awareness and reducing stigma through community education, outreach, and advocacy.

I view personal well-being as a continuous process of reflection, healing, and growth. In my own life, I practice meditation, mindful journaling, and music therapy as ways to stay grounded and centered. I also make it a priority to attend yearly personal therapy sessions to maintain my emotional well-being and professional balance. Through my role at CAPS, I aim to create a space where students and individuals feel seen, supported, and empowered to prioritize their mental health and personal development.

Hamna Butt

Education:

• MS Clinical Psychology, Forman Christian College (A Chartered University)
• BS (Hons.) Psychology Major, Forman Christian College (A Chartered University)

  Professional Interests:

• Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
• Client Centered Therapy
• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
• Behavioral Therapy
• Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)

Approach to Therapy:

In my practice, I adopt an eclectic approach, tailoring personalized strategies that align with the unique needs of each client. I prioritize creating a safe and supportive environment where clients can freely explore their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. My goal is to equip them with practical strategies to manage life’s challenges and enhance their functioning across various aspects of life. By integrating techniques from various therapeutic modalities, I aim to foster self-awareness and resilience, guiding clients towards meaningful and lasting change in their lives.

Approach to Wellness:

In managing my own wellness, I engage in activities that support my physical, emotional and spiritual well-being. I particularly focus on nurturing my social connections, as engaging with my network provides emotional support and enriches my life. Reflecting on my personal values and aligning my actions with them is central to my approach, guiding me in making choices that foster a sense of purpose and fulfillment. By continuously working on these areas, I strive to create a balanced and resilient lifestyle that enhances my quality of life.