Dr. Sheeba Farhan

Dr. Sheeba Farhan is an esteemed psychologist and academician with over a decade of experience in both clinical practice and university teaching. With a strong foundation in psychology, Dr. Farhan holds a PhD in Psychology from the University of Karachi, where her research focused on Emotional Intelligence, Perceived Self-Efficacy, and Subjective Well-Being among Higher Education Teachers. She has also earned an International Post-Doctorate from the Islamic Research Institute at the International Islamic University, Islamabad, further demonstrating her dedication to advancing her knowledge and expertise in psychology.

Academic and Professional Qualifications

Dr. Farhan’s academic journey began with an M.A. in Psychology from the University of Karachi, followed by an MPhil from Iqra University, where her thesis explored the Influence of Stress and Self-Esteem on Academic Achievement among undergraduate students. She has since gained numerous specialized certifications, including:

  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) Practitioner from the Academy of Modern Applied Psychology.
  • Certified Hypnotherapist through the National Guild of Hypnotists (USA).
  • Licensed Practitioner of Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP), accredited by ITA-NLP (USA).
  • Post Managerial Diploma in Counseling and Assessment from the University of Karachi.
  • Certification in Child and Adolescent Mental Health from Aga Khan University.
  • Training in trauma-focused therapies like EMDR and trauma-focused CBT.

Her additional training includes courses in online teaching, substance abuse prevention, and psychological first aid, showcasing her ability to adapt to modern therapeutic and educational challenges.

Academic Appointments and Teaching

Dr. Farhan currently serves as an Assistant Professor at the Federal Urdu University of Arts, Science, and Technology, Karachi, where she has been an integral part of the faculty since 2022. She has also taught at Bahria University, Preston University, and SZABIST, contributing to both undergraduate and graduate programs. Her academic influence extends beyond teaching, as she has held editorial roles, including Assistant Editor of the Bahria Journal of Professional Psychology, where she oversaw the publication of critical psychological research.

Her commitment to student development is evident in her role as a thesis supervisor for numerous MPhil and MS candidates, guiding research on topics such as stress, coping mechanisms, substance abuse, academic procrastination, and psychological well-being. She has also served on selection committees and organizing committees for academic conferences, reflecting her leadership within the academic community.

Research Contributions

Dr. Farhan is a prolific researcher with several publications in both national and international journals. Her work has covered diverse topics such as:

  • The impact of emotional intelligence and self-efficacy on subjective well-being.
  • Women’s objectification in media and its psychological effects.
  • The role of ego resilience and social support in managing job stress among working women.
  • The psychological effects of substance abuse and the effectiveness of therapeutic interventions.

Her studies have practical implications for improving mental health in various populations, including university students, working women, and substance abuse patients. She has also presented papers at numerous national and international conferences, where she has shared insights on issues like mental health, resilience, and therapeutic interventions.

Workshops and Public Speaking

In addition to her academic work, Dr. Farhan is a dynamic speaker and trainer. She has conducted numerous workshops on topics such as:

  • Stress management for professionals and students.
  • Parenting skills for underprivileged communities.
  • Teacher training on using mind technologies for better classroom management.
  • Coping strategies for academic anxiety and stress among university students.

Her ability to simplify complex psychological concepts has made her a sought-after speaker at mental health awareness events. She has been invited to deliver guest lectures at institutions like Aga Khan University and the Institute of Professional Psychology, where she speaks on topics ranging from critical thinking in problem-solving to mental health advocacy.

Clinical and Therapeutic Practice

Alongside her academic career, Dr. Farhan is an experienced therapist. She has worked at the Transformation Wellness Clinics, providing therapeutic services to individuals dealing with a range of mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, and substance abuse. As a certified hypnotherapist and NLP practitioner, she integrates modern therapeutic techniques with traditional counseling methods to help her clients achieve lasting mental health improvements

Her clinical expertise also extends to workshops and seminars aimed at reducing stigma around mental health issues. She has been an active voice in promoting mental health as a universal human right and has been involved in projects that support marginalized communities, such as Afghan refugees in urban settlements.

Community Involvement and Leadership

Dr. Farhan’s leadership extends beyond the classroom and clinic. She has served as a member of organizing committees for multiple national and international conferences, such as the National Conference on Mental Health – Universal Human Right and the International Conference on Forensic Psychology in Pakistan’s Legal System. She is a prominent advocate for improving mental health services and education in Pakistan, regularly participating in initiatives to enhance psychological awareness and support in both academic and public settings.

Her community outreach includes conducting career counseling sessions for students, teacher training workshops, and mental health seminars aimed at empowering individuals with the skills to manage stress and enhance their overall well-being.

Publications and Research Interests

Dr. Farhan’s extensive list of publications highlights her research interests in areas such as emotional intelligence, stress management, academic achievement, and women’s psychological well-being. Her most recent work focuses on topics like:

  • The psychological impact of screen time on children’s development.
  • The relationship between body shape satisfaction and personal intimacy.
  • Interventions for managing academic stress in hybrid learning environments.

Her collaborative research on gender issues, particularly the objectification of women in Pakistani media, has gained significant attention for addressing the cultural implications of media representation on young females’ self-concept.