Staying composed has become second nature, even when you’re unraveling on the inside.

Growing up emotions weren’t named. Expectations were high, and the unspoken rule was: don’t rock the boat.

Even now, the pressure to be calm, competent, and collected hasn’t left. You’re functioning, but it’s costing you emotionally, mentally, sometimes even physically.

If you’re tired of people-pleasing, second-guessing yourself, or carrying emotional weight that was never fully yours, therapy can offer a different way forward.

If you’ve been asking yourself, “Who am I outside of what everyone expects from me?” it’s time for the next step.

Staying composed has become second nature, even when you’re unraveling on the inside.

Growing up emotions weren’t named. Expectations were high, and the unspoken rule was: don’t rock the boat.

Even now, the pressure to be calm, competent, and collected hasn’t left. You’re functioning, but it’s costing you emotionally, mentally, sometimes even physically.

If you’re tired of people-pleasing, second-guessing yourself, or carrying emotional weight that was never fully yours, therapy can offer a different way forward.

If you’ve been asking yourself, “Who am I outside of what everyone expects from me?” it’s time for the next step.

Therapy that Honor Both You Culture and Your Emotions

You might be used to holding it in. Keeping the peace, minimizing your needs, or overthinking every decision because that’s what was modeled. But just because it’s familiar doesn’t mean it has to stay your default. In therapy, there’s space to start untangling all of it: the cultural pressure, the unspoken family expectations, the way you silence your own discomfort just to avoid rocking the boat.

Many of my clients come from South Asian backgrounds where love is often shown through sacrifice, not words. And where silence is mistaken for strength. You’ve been taught to be the responsible one. The one who doesn’t burden others. The one who gets it done.

But now you’re exhausted, anxious, or unsure of who you are outside of other people’s expectations. And maybe, like many first-gen clients I work with, you’re starting to wonder: What would it mean to live on my own terms?

My approach blends cultural sensitivity with practical tools like CBT and mindfulness o help you understand your emotions, set boundaries without guilt, and reconnect with your own voice. We’ll explore the unspoken rules you’ve learned about strength, silence, responsibility and determine which ones still serve you. I’ll support you in identifying unspoken rules you’ve inherited and practicing emotional expression that feels safe and true to who you are. You’l learn that you don’t have to choose between honoring your culture and honoring your feelings.

Hi! I’m Mahnoor Farooq

As a first-generation Pakistani Muslim woman, I understand the weight of carrying your family’s hopes while navigating a world that doesn’t always see you. I know how lonely it can feel to straddle cultures and how freeing it is to finally make space for yourself.

This perspective allows me to hold space for clients who are looking to explore the tension between tradition and autonomy, between loyalty and liberation.

I take pride in my cultural humility, respecting and valuing the diverse backgrounds and experiences that each client brings. Your comfort and understanding are my top priorities.

Mahnoor is available for afternoon, and evening individual therapy appointments. You may meet with Mahnoor in-person as well as online. Mahnoor’s services are not eligible for insurance reimbursement. She is under the direction and supervision of Rayvene Whatley, LPC.

Areas of Focus: Anxiety, Depression, and Trauma

I have a strong dedication within the counseling field to focus on anxiety, depression, and trauma. I recognize the significant impact these issues can have on your everyday life, and my aim is to help you navigate them with empathy, knowledge, and effective strategies. Together we’ll center on uncovering your inner resilience and fostering the healing process.

My training emphasizes the significance of the psychodynamic perspective, delving into the root causes of your unconscious behaviors. My specialization lies in empowering individuals to break free from the cycle of self-doubt, guiding you toward a life filled with purpose and meaning. Through personalized therapy, we will embark on a transformative journey of self-discovery and self-love, unlocking your full potential.

Empowerment through Empathy and Encouragement

On the other side of your current struggles, a bright life awaits. You’ll wake up each day inspired and motivated, excited to pursue your passions. You’ll find the peace you’ve been searching for, knowing you’re living a life true to yourself—one filled with purpose, joy, and limitless possibilities.

In our therapy sessions, I will always strive to provide you with a comfortable and non-judgmental space so you can explore who you really are. I will help you modify the behaviors and manage your emotions so that you will not be held back. With each session, you will gain the tools to live a life that aligns with your authentic self—a life brimming with joy, purpose, and endless possibilities. Embrace this transformative journey with me, and on the other side of your struggles, a brighter, more fulfilling life awaits you.