My journey into mental wellbeing coaching has been shaped by a lifelong curiosity about people, relationships, and the ways we navigate life's challenges.
For over a decade, I worked in education, teaching Psychology and Health & Social Care and later leading a department while mentoring trainee teachers and supporting colleagues in their professional development. Throughout those years, what I valued most was helping people gain confidence, discover their strengths, and find clarity during periods of uncertainty and growth.
Alongside my professional career, my interest in emotional wellbeing and human behaviour continued to deepen. From early experiences interning within psychiatric settings to years of exploring psychological approaches to understanding ourselves and others, I have always been drawn to the question of what helps people thrive.
Friends, family, colleagues and students often described me as someone who listened without judgement, brought calm to difficult situations, and helped untangle thoughts that felt unclear or overwhelming. Looking back, these qualities naturally laid the foundation for the work I do today.
After taking time away from my career to raise my two young children, I chose to invest further in my passion for supporting mental wellbeing. Through training in counselling skills and cognitive behavioural approaches, I developed a coaching practice that combines psychological understanding with compassionate, practical support.
This led to the creation of Saaya by Soherra.
In Urdu, Saaya means protection, shelter or shade. The name reflects the heart of my work: creating a safe and supportive space where you can pause, reflect, and reconnect with yourself amidst the demands of everyday life.
I believe that meaningful change begins with self-awareness. My role is not to tell you what to do, but to walk alongside you as you gain greater clarity, build emotional resilience, and move towards a life that feels more balanced, purposeful and aligned with who you are.
Whether you are navigating stress, self-doubt, a life transition, or simply seeking space to understand yourself more deeply, you will be met with warmth, empathy and genuine curiosity.