Get to know Marina, a Couples Counsellor at Therapy Alberta, in this interview blog.
Who are you?
I’m an Egyptian-Canadian who’s lived in many parts of the world. I’ve always
longed to settle in one place. I’m a daughter, sister, dog mom, friend, and therapist. My happy place is on a beach in Egypt surrounded by family, friends, and my dog.
What led you to become a therapist?
I’ve always known that I wanted to help people on a deep and emotional level. It wasn’t until the end of my third year of my undergrad that it clicked that I could do that as a therapist/counsellor. My master’s and practicum solidified my choice to become a therapist when I experienced how therapy changed my life as well as my clients.
What is your life philosophy?
Life is hard, so try to be kind and patient with others.
What makes your job fulfilling?
Being able to see my clients’ lives transform and hear them use more self-love language.
What would you tell someone who’s nervous to start therapy?
The pressure is on your therapist to make a good impression. If you don’t know what to say at first that’s ok, let them ask you questions and lead the way until you’re more comfortable with them.
What are some obstacles you’ve overcome?
One of the hardest things I had to do was move to Canada during my senior year of high school and leave all my friends behind. I also came from a very warm place, so it took some time to get used to the cold. Not sure if I’ve still adjusted to the cold 10 years later.
What are your hobbies?
Traveling, swimming, diving, and watching cooking shows.
What do you like to do in your free time?
Spend time with friends and family, go on a walk with my dog, plan/go on a trip.
What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?
If you don’t have anything nice to say, don’t say anything at all.
Do you have kids?
No.
What’s your favorite show (movie)?
The Office!
What are you watching right now?
Nothing right now, looking for any suggestions.
What’s your favorite book?
What are you reading right now? I just got done reading Atomic Habits. I’m not a fan of reading unless it has to do with Psychology.
Cats or dogs or other?
Dogs all the way. I have a black pug and her name is Tina.
What did you want to be when you were 10 years old?
What’s your favorite quote?
“Keep your thoughts positive because your thoughts become your words. Keep your words positive because your words become your behaviour. Keep your behaviour positive because your behaviour become your habits. Keep your habits positive because your habits become your values. Keep your values positive because your values become your destiny.”
Indoors or outdoors?
Outdoors, preferably by a beach.
What’s your favorite food?
Sushi, cheeseburgers, and French fries.
What’s your wish for your clients?
To find inner peace and be content with life and its circumstances.
Marina Fanous is a therapist who specializes in working with youth, adults and couples who are struggling with depression and anxiety. Marina is a Certified Canadian Counsellor and practices client-centered, solution-focused therapy. She offers therapy in Arabic and English.