This podcast is where therapy meets faith and tradition. Too often, we search for therapists who share our beliefs, hoping for a space that truly understands us. As a Muslim and practicing therapist, I felt the need to explore this intersection—to have real conversations about where faith and psychology align, how we can grow, and how healing can be both spiritual and psychological. Most importantly, mental health doesn’t discriminate—believer or not, we all face struggles. Join me in reflecting, questioning, and making space for a something that is dear to our heart, mind, and soul.

What happens when “doing religion right” starts to feel like anxiety, guilt, or a constant inner audit? In this conversation, Dr. Adnan A. Zulfiqar explores the meeting point between Islamic law, ethics, and mental health—and offers a more grounded, spacious way to think about moral responsibility, shame, and returning to faith.Dr. Zulfiqar shares his personal path into Islamic studies, and why Islamic tradition can’t be reduced to a rigid checklist. We talk about how guilt and shame shape the inner life, how people get distanced from Allah through fear-based religious experiences, and what it means to create compassionate “pathways back” for those who feel overwhelmed. Throughout, he invites listeners to approach sacred knowledge with humility, nuance, and the willingness to learn from diverse teachers and perspectives.In this episode, we explore:Why Islamic tradition is deeper than rules—and how ethics sits at its heartMoral responsibility, uncertainty, and what we do with our imperfectionsThe psychological weight of guilt and shame—and how it can distort faithHow people become spiritually distant (and what helps them return)What a flexible, honest relationship with Islamic law can look likeThe value of seeking teachers who widen the heart, not tighten itIf this episode resonatedShare it with someone who feels exhausted by “religion as pressure,” and take one gentle step: seek a teacher, a community, or a reading that brings you back to mercy.You can find Dr Adnan on:https://www.bc.edu/bc-web/schools/law/academics-faculty/faculty-directory/adnan-zulfiqar.html You can find me on:Website: https://nouraamkieh.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nafsandtherapy

S3 E1: Beyond the Checklist: Islamic Law, Moral Responsibility, and Mental Wellbeing.

In this conversation, Dr. Abdallah Rothman shares his journey into Islamic psychology, emphasizing the integration of spirituality and mental health. He discusses the importance of understanding the soul, the impact of traditional practices on mental well-being, and introduces the Shifa method, which focuses on heart-centered healing. The conversation also explores themes of trust in Allah, the significance of experiential knowledge, and the need to revive Islamic psychology in the modern world, concluding with the reminder that true healing comes from Allah. You can find Dr Abdallah on:Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/daralshifaa_wellbeing/Website: https://dar-al-shifaa.com/You can find me on:Website: https://nouraamkieh.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nafsandtherapy

S2 E7: Returning to the Basics: When Living Islam Becomes the Ground of Healing

In this conversation with Mohammed Isaaq, we explore the threads that tie together spirituality, self-knowledge, love, and the realities of modern relationships. We sit with the question of what it truly means to stay connected—to God, to others, and to ourselves—and how easily we get caught in the illusion of success while neglecting the inner work.Together, we reflect on the complexities of love today: how understanding our own hearts, our patterns, and our relationship with the Divine can reshape the way we show up with others. We touch on attachment, healing, and the quiet work of remembering our worth—not through people’s eyes, but through the gaze of God. You can find Mohammed Isaaq on:Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/isaaq.mohammed/?hl=enWebsite: https://www.mohammedisaaq.com/You can find me on:Website: https://nouraamkieh.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nafsandtherapy

S2 E6: Finding God and your people, with Mohammed Isaaq

In this deeply intimate conversation with Michael, we explore how trauma, faith, and personal growth weave through each of our lives and shape who we are today. We reflect on the paths that brought us to this work — from personal experiences to trauma recovery in conflict zones — and how faith carries its own weight and wisdom in moments of hardship. Together, we look at the role of community, the dance between certainty and doubt, and the humility needed to move through different faith environments with care. We also speak about the healing power of collective rituals and what it means to find steadiness in a world that often feels unsteady.You can find me on:Website: https://nouraamkieh.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nafsandtherapy

S2 E5: Wounds and Worship - Reflections of a Faithful Neuroscientist

In this conversation with Salma and Mehboob, we explore how mental health and Islamic psychology intertwine, reflecting on how we can care for our hearts and minds with purpose and faith. Together, we discuss the value of proactive mental wellness, the power of collaboration between therapists and spiritual leaders, and the ways grief and love shape our human experience. We also look at the importance of cultural sensitivity in therapy and what we’ve learned from common patterns in couples work. At the heart of it all, we emphasize the strength we find in community, and the deep commitment required to nurture both healing and relationships. You can find Salama and Mehboob on:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rahmainstitute/ Website: https://rahmainstitute.org/teamYou can find me on:Website: https://nouraamkieh.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nafsandtherapy

S2 E4: Beyond the Self - Healing through Faith and Connection, with Salma and Mehboob 

In this conversation, we explore the tender and often challenging relationship between Salah (prayer) and ADHD. We talk about what it feels like to struggle with focus, guilt, or distraction in prayer, and how our emotional and relational worlds shape the way we connect with Allah. Together, we reflect on the true purpose of Salah as a moment of presence and belonging, and how acceptance, compassion, and small acts of consistency can help us nurture a lifelong relationship with prayer. We also share practical ways to make Salah more mindful and adaptable for those living with ADHD.You can find Halah Zumrawi on:Instagram: @salahandadhd www.salahandadhd.comsalahandadhd@gmail.comYou can find me on:Website: https://nouraamkieh.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nafsandtherapy

S2 E3: When the Mind Wanders: ADHD and the Heart of Prayer

*Disclaimer* this episode talks about psychosis, if this is a triggering topic, please skip.In this deep and meaningful conversation, we open up about the tender and complex relationship between psychosis, mental health, and spirituality. Together, we reflect on lived experiences with psychosis, the role of community support, and how moments of deep struggle can sometimes hold the seeds of spiritual awakening. Our dialogue is rooted in compassion and understanding, as we explore how to gently integrate these experiences into daily life while confronting the stigma that so often surrounds mental health.You can find Imtithal Mohammed on:Instagram: @salikah.alchemist @transpersonal.counsellorInterview: https://youtu.be/UKdrJduigLw?si=wI5-xk7HWYRABTU2 Article: https://thesalikahalchemist.substack.com/p/the-nature-of-madness-pyshosis-or-spiritual-awakeningYou can find me on:Website: https://nouraamkieh.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nafsandtherapy

S2 EP2: When the Mind Breaks Open Psychosis, Faith, and Belonging with Imtithal Mohammed

In this episode, Armaan, a psychiatry resident, opens up about his journey through medical training and how he’s weaving Islamic psychology into the fabric of modern psychiatry. He reflects on what it means to care for both the mind and the soul, reminding us that true healing goes beyond prescriptions and diagnoses. Together, we explore the challenges of being a healthcare professional, the quiet power of faith in recovery, and the profound act of simply witnessing a patient’s suffering without rushing to “fix” it. Armaan also shares his thoughts on moral injury in medicine and the hopeful, transformative role Islamic psychology can play in reimagining clinical care.You can find Dr. Armaan Rowther on:https://www.linkedin.com/in/armaan-rowther-4341a936/arowther@dhs.lacounty.govHis publications: https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=syEpacQAAAAJ&hl=enYou can find me on:Website: https://nouraamkieh.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nafsandtherapy

S2 EP 1 : The Art of Presence - Psychiatry and Islamic Psychology in Practice with Armaan Rowther

In this episode, I share reflections from the Shifaa Method training, a unique approach that integrates psychological, spiritual, and relational dimensions of healing. We look at how these teachings can shape the way we understand and practice care. I also give you a glimpse into what’s ahead this season, episodes that will explore psychiatry in today’s context, the intersection of ADHD and salat, and lived experiences of psychosis. Each conversation is meant to open space for dialogue between clinical knowledge and spiritual wisdom, and to bring depth and nuance to how we think about mental health and well-being.To find Dar Al Shifaa's training:https://dar-al-shifaa.com/practitioners-training-register-your-interest/?utm_source=email&utm_medium=February+Intro+Email&utm_campaign=Level+2+Practitioner+Training+Reminder

Season 2 on The Farm: The Intro.

Disclaimer: This episode contains descriptions of war, trauma, and graphic content. Please listen with care and pause if it feels heavy. This conversation is not a substitute for therapy or professional mental health support.In this special episode of Nafs & Therapy, we sit with Dr. Adil Husain, who served as an emergency medicine doctor in Gaza. Together, we step into the heart of the hospital during times of war—witnessing the depth of suffering, the weight of grief, and the moments of quiet resilience that emerge in between.We explore what it means to live through trauma when the world itself feels unsafe, and how faith, community, and the bonds of care become lifelines in the darkest of times. Dr. Husain reminds us of the importance of humanizing those enduring violence, and of carrying their stories forward as an act of witness and solidarity.Even in the midst of devastation, we find glimpses of joy, love, and strength—the resilience of the human spirit that insists on surviving, even flourishing, against all odds.You can find Dr Adil Husain on:Instagram: @adil.husain525You can find me on:Website: https://nouraamkieh.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nafsandtherapy

EP 12: From Gaza’s ER - Holding Suffering, Faith, and Resilience with Dr. Adil Husain

In this episode, we sit with Dr. Hooman Keshavarzi to explore where Islamic psychology and OCD meet, with a special focus on religious OCD, often called scrupulosity. Together, we talk about the symptoms of OCD, how the inner critic shows up in our lives, and the ways spirituality can play a healing role. We share practical strategies for coping, and reflect on why it matters to seek support from practitioners who truly understand the religious context. Most importantly, we highlight the hope that treatment brings — reminding ourselves and our listeners that recovery is possible, and that none of us have to walk this journey alone.You can find Dr Hooman on:https://khalilcenter.com/staff/dr-hooman-keshavarziOCD Workbook: https://khalilcenter.com/articles/ocdworkbook You can find me on:Website: https://nouraamkieh.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nafsandtherapy

EP 11: Dr Hooman Keshavarzi - Religious OCD: Untangling Obsession from Devotion

Join me on this episode as I sit down with Dr. Sameer Mahmood to explore where psychology, spirituality, and love converge through an Islamic lens. We reflect on Freud and Jung and what we have learnt from these two, but keep coming back to how Islamic wisdom grounds our understanding of the soul, the modern search for meaning, and the way beauty awakens true love. Dr. Sameer and I dive into why lived experience matters, and how balancing our vertical relationship with the Divine and our horizontal bonds with each other opens the door to genuine purpose and connection.You can find Dr Samir on:Website: https://www.samirmahmoud.com/ He has alot of content available on YouTube as well.You can find me on:Website: https://nouraamkieh.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nafsandtherapy

EP 10: Finding Meaning, Dr. Samir Mahmoud on Beauty, Love, and the Psychology of the Divine

In this enlightening conversation, Dr. Mazen Atassi shares his journey into naturopathic medicine and how he integrates Islamic psychology into his healing practices. He discusses the importance of addressing both emotional and physical aspects of health, the concept of Afiyah as holistic well-being, and the role of environment in healing. Dr. Atassi emphasizes the significance of spiritual depth, especially in challenging circumstances, and offers practical tips for achieving balance and well-being. We highlight the interconnectedness of mental health, spirituality, and holistic approaches to healing.You can find Dr Mazen on:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.mazen.atassi?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=MWJlb2I5bGx4NnhjMwForward to Health: https://www.instagram.com/forward.to.health?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=bzQ1emF2NnAyOWls Website: forwardtohealth.myflodesk.comYou can find me on:Website: https://nouraamkieh.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nafsandtherapy

EP 9: Beyond Symptom Relief: Dr. Mazen Atassi on Islamic Psychology Meets Naturopathic Healing

In this episode, we explore the complexities of relationships through the lens of prophetic guidance and modern therapeutic practices. We discuss common challenges faced by couples, the importance of communication, and the role of faith in navigating marital issues. The conversation emphasizes the significance of shared vision, emotional intelligence, and the need for preventative education in relationships. We touch on cultural influences, gender roles, and the necessity of seeking help when conflicts arise, ultimately highlighting the balance between love for Allah and love for one another.You can find Rahma Institute on:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rahmainstitute?igsh=eWFkMTB3ZGR0YTgzWebsite: https://rahmainstitute.org/You can find me on:Website: https://nouraamkieh.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nafsandtherapy

EP 8: Centering Faith in Love & Marriage a conversation with Salma Khan

In this episode, we discuss the profound journey of motherhood by exploring the emotional and spiritual challenges that come with it. Noor shares her personal experiences, including the struggles of postpartum mental health, the importance of community support, and the balance between joy and grief in motherhood. We emphasize the need for mothers to be gentle with themselves and to seek help when needed, while also reflecting on the spiritual dimensions of parenting within the Islamic context.You can find Noor on: https://www.instagram.com/mhp.noorawad/ https://linktr.ee/Mhp.noorawadYou can find me on:Website: https://nouraamkieh.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nafsandtherapy

EP 7: Motherhood and the path to Allah, a conversation with Noor Awad

In this episode we talked about the pressing issue of addiction among youth, particularly within the Muslim community. We explore the various forms of addiction, the importance of compassion in treatment, and the need for a nuanced understanding of modern challenges such as instant gratification. Imam Zahir emphasizes the significance of motivational interviewing and the three C's of change: conceptualization, commitment, and consistency. The conversation highlights the role of harm reduction strategies in addressing addiction and the necessity of community support in fostering healing and understanding.You can find Imam Tabari on: https://www.instagram.com/tabarizahir?igsh=bzNzanF4bTgwOW0z Lamps of Light project: https://lampsoflight.org/You can find me on:Website: https://nouraamkieh.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nafsandtherapy

EP 6: Beneath the Surface , Muslim Youth and the Struggle with Addiction with Imam Tabari Zahir

Part 2: As we continue this conversation, we delve into the healing of the spiritual wounds experienced by women, particularly in the context of Islamic teachings. We further explore the concept of fitrah faith dissonance and its impact on women's psychological well-being. The discussion emphasizes the importance of healing through both cognitive and emotional pathways, while also addressing the challenges posed by difficult religious texts. We advocate for the creation of supportive communities and the empowerment of women to navigate their spiritual journeys with agency and discernment.Hadith:I said: Messenger of Allah, how should we approach our wives and how should we leave them? He replied: Approach your tilth when or how you will, give her (your wife) food when you take food, clothe when you clothe yourself, do not revile her face, and do not beat her.Abu Dawud said: The version of Shu'bah has: That you give her food when you have food yourself, and that you clothe her when you clothe yourself.حَدَّثَنَا ابْنُ بَشَّارٍ، حَدَّثَنَا يَحْيَى بْنُ سَعِيدٍ، حَدَّثَنَا بَهْزُ بْنُ حَكِيمٍ، حَدَّثَنِي أَبِي، عَنْ جَدِّي، قَالَ قُلْتُ يَا رَسُولَ اللَّهِ نِسَاؤُنَا مَا نَأْتِي مِنْهُنَّ وَمَا نَذَرُ قَالَ ‏"‏ ائْتِ حَرْثَكَ أَنَّى شِئْتَ وَأَطْعِمْهَا إِذَا طَعِمْتَ وَاكْسُهَا إِذَا اكْتَسَيْتَ وَلاَ تُقَبِّحِ الْوَجْهَ وَلاَ تَضْرِبْ ‏"‏ ‏.‏ قَالَ أَبُو دَاوُدَ رَوَى شُعْبَةُ ‏"‏ تُطْعِمُهَا إِذَا طَعِمْتَ وَتَكْسُوهَا إِذَا اكْتَسَيْتَ ‏"‏ ‏.‏You can find Wid on:Dal: https://dalwellbeing.com/member/wid-kattan/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/widkattan/You can find me on:• Website: https://nouraamkieh.com/• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nafsandtherapy

EP 5/P2: The Faith-Fitrah Dissonance, a conversation with Wid Kattan

Part 1: In this conversation, we explore the complex topic of spiritual wounds in women, particularly within the context of Islamic psychology. We discuss the concept of spiritual lacerations, the dissonance between faith and personal experience, and the impact of cultural narratives on women's mental health. The dialogue emphasizes the importance of questioning traditional interpretations of religious texts and the need for women's voices to be heard in discussions about faith. Through case studies and personal anecdotes, we highlight the challenges women face in reconciling their spiritual identities with societal expectations and the significance of attachment styles in shaping one's relationship with God.Resources:A Commentary on the Hadīth of Women& Intelligence. Shaykha Iman Badawi.https://fitrafoundation.org/wpcontent/uploads/2023/01/hadith-commentary.pdf Yaqeen institute study: Belief in Divine Love: Discovering Spiritual Attachment Styleshttps://yaqeeninstitute.org/read/paper/belief-in-divine-love-discovering-spiritual-attachment-stylesHadiths:The woman who spoke against Omar, on the Mahr:https://www.abuaminaelias.com/dailyhadithonline/2018/02/19/umar-woman-right-manwrong/#:~:text=Abdur%20Rahman%20al%2DSalami%20reported,and%20she%20has%20defeated%20him.%E2%80%9DContemporary scholars:Dr. Mariam Shibanihttps://www.instagram.com/dr.mariamsheibani?igsh=MXFlc2JpNnpkd2JiNA==Sofia Rehamanhttps://www.instagram.com/sofia_reading?igsh=MTlocjd6Ymp1MHpocQ==Habib Akandehttps://www.instagram.com/habeeb_akande?igsh=dTJ1ZjlvanNrb3ptYou can find Wid on:Dal: https://dalwellbeing.com/member/wid-kattan/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/widkattan/You can find me on:• Website: https://nouraamkieh.com/• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nafsandtherapy

EP 5/P1: The Faith-Fitrah Dissonance, a conversation with Wid Kattan

في هذا الحوار، نتعمق في تعقيدات الصدمات الدينية وتداعياتها النفسية، ونستكشف كيف يمكن للصدمة الدينية أن تغير نظرة الفرد إلى الله والروحانية، مما يؤدي إلى أزمات وجودية وتوقعات مثقلة بالأعباء. تؤكد المناقشة على أهمية فهم وإعادة بناء العلاقات مع الله، ودور الشفاء النفسي، وضرورة الاعتراف بالأخطاء كجزء من رحلة الإيمان. نحن بحاجة إلى منهج شامل للشفاء يدمج الجسد والعقل والروح، ليوجه الأفراد في نهاية المطاف نحو حياة روحية أكثر إشباعًا.In this conversation, we delve into the complexities of religious trauma and its psychological implications, we explore how religious shock can alter one's perception of God and spirituality, leading to existential crises and burdensome expectations. The discussion emphasizes the importance of understanding and rebuilding relationships with God, the role of psychological healing, and the necessity of recognizing mistakes as part of the faith journey. We need a holistic approach to healing that integrates the body, mind, and spirit, ultimately guiding individuals towards a more fulfilling spiritual life.You can find Khoulod on: • Website: https://tawazonspace.com/ • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/khoulod.aladani/?hl=enYou can find me on: • Website: https://nouraamkieh.com/ • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nafsandtherapy

EP 4: Religious Trauma, الصدمات الدينية - A conversation with Khoulod Aladani in Arabic

EPISODE IN ARABICفي هذا الحوار العميق، نستكشف معًا تعقيدات الصوت الداخلي وتأثيره على نظرتنا لذواتنا وعلى علاقتنا الروحية. نناقش التفاعل بين النقد الذاتي والنمو الروحي، ونؤكد على أهمية التعاطف مع الذات، ومخاطر السعي للكمال، والقوة التحويلية لإدراك رحمة الله. كما نقدم خطوات عملية لتعزيز علاقة إيجابية مع النفس وتقوية الصلة بالله.In this insightful conversation, we explore the complexities of the inner voice and its profound impact on self-perception and spirituality, our discussion sheds light on the interplay between self-criticism and spiritual growth, highlighting the importance of self-compassion, the pitfalls of perfectionism, and the transformative power of understanding God's mercy. We also offer practical guidance on cultivating a nurturing relationship with oneself and deepening one's connection with God.You can find Rafah on: <ul><li>Website: https://rafahsahab.space/</li><li>Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rafahsahab/?hl=en</li><li>Dal: https://dalwellbeing.com/member/rafah-sahab/</li><li>RPS: https://www.instagram.com/rps_studio/?hl=en</li></ul>You can find me on: <ul><li>Website: https://nouraamkieh.com/ </li><li>Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nafsandtherapy</li></ul>

EP 3: The Inner Critic & Gods' Mercy - A conversation with Rafah Sahab in Arabic

In this episode we engage in a heartfelt conversation about grief and loss, exploring personal experiences, cultural perspectives, and the emotional journey associated with these themes. We discuss the complexity of acceptance, the role of faith, and the importance of connection in healing. The conversation emphasizes that grief is a universal experience, and while it can be heavy, it also opens pathways for meaningful engagement and understanding.You can find Sarif on: https://www.mcapn.co.uk/You can find me on: Website: https://nouraamkieh.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nafsandtherapy

EP 2: Loss, Grief, and God - A conversation with Sarif Alrai.

Episode 1 sets the pace and space for what this podcast will be about, I introduce myself and my background, and my passion for this ever growing field. Enjoy! You can find me on: Website: https://nouraamkieh.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nafsandtherapy

Episode 1: The long awaited intro

All Episodes

Nafs and Therapy

Play and download Nafs and Therapy by Noura Amkieh - and other episodes including S3 E1: Beyond the Checklist: Islamic Law, Moral Responsibility, and Mental Wellbeing., S2 E7: Returning to the Basics: When Living Islam Becomes the Ground of Healing, S2 E6: Finding God and your people, with Mohammed Isaaq...

Noura Amkieh · podcast · 2025 · 22 episodes