Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Dr. Nour Z. Suid. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Dr. Nour Z. Suid, thanks so much for taking the time to share your insights and lessons with us today. We’re particularly interested in hearing about how you became such a resilient person. Where do you get your resilience from?
My resilience comes from a combination of faith, life experiences, and a deep commitment to growth. Islam teaches me patience and perseverance, reminding me that with every difficulty comes ease (Qur’an 94:6). As a Palestinian, I have witnessed and experienced struggles that have tested me in many ways, but they have also strengthened my ability to navigate hardship with grace. The challenges I’ve faced—whether in relationships, career, or advocating for mental health—have deepened my understanding of resilience and the power of perseverance. With faith, self-reflection, and the support of loved ones, I keep building my resilience while helping others do the same.
Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?
I am a Palestinian Muslim mental health professional, photographer, and advocate. I’m the founder of Serenity Wellness & Counseling, and I’m deeply passionate about advocating for mental health, especially in the US Virgin Islands, where access to care is limited. Through my practice, I offer both in-person and virtual counseling services, providing a safe and supportive space for individuals to work through challenges and build resilience. What excites me the most about my work is the ability to make a tangible difference in people’s lives—helping them heal, grow, and find strength through life’s difficulties. The most rewarding part of my job is seeing patients regain their sense of self and move toward mental wellness.
In addition to my counseling services, I’m a photographer who loves to capture the beauty of nature, and I believe in the power of art to inspire peace and healing. I’m also a passionate advocate for Palestinians and the struggles they endure. Palestinians face ongoing trauma from displacement, violence, and loss, which takes a toll on their mental health. I strive to raise awareness of the psychological impact of these struggles. My goal is to bring attention to the resilience of the Palestinian people while emphasizing the importance of mental well-being, healing, and support for those affected by this ongoing conflict.
It is my goal to expand Serenity Wellness & Counseling to include a variety of wellness activities that support both mental and physical health. In addition to counseling services, I plan to offer a variety of group therapy, wellness workshops, and collaborations with other professionals in the field to provide a more holistic approach to healing. I’m excited to continue growing and offering comprehensive support to those in need, fostering a space where mental health and overall well-being are prioritized and celebrated.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
Looking back, the three qualities that have been most impactful in my journey are resilience, empathy, and continuous learning. Resilience has been crucial in navigating both personal and professional challenges. As a Palestinian Muslim, I’ve faced numerous obstacles, and being able to persevere through them has been a key factor in my growth. Empathy has allowed me to connect deeply with others in my work as a mental health professional, helping me understand and support patients in their struggles. Finally, continuous learning has been essential in staying informed, growing my expertise, and adapting to new methods in therapy and wellness.
For those early in their journey, my advice is to embrace these qualities. To develop resilience, don’t shy away from challenges—use them as opportunities to grow. Understand that setbacks are part of the process and that perseverance will carry you forward. Cultivate empathy by actively listening and being present with others, as this will strengthen your ability to relate and connect on a deeper level. Lastly, commit to lifelong learning. Whether it’s through formal education, personal experiences, or seeking mentorship, always strive to expand your knowledge and skills. These qualities will not only help you succeed but also enable you to have a meaningful and lasting impact on others.
What do you do when you feel overwhelmed? Any advice or strategies?
When I feel overwhelmed, I take a step back and focus on grounding myself. I practice mindfulness and turn to salah (prayer) as a way to reconnect with my faith and center myself. The act of prayer brings me a sense of peace and clarity, allowing me to pause, reflect, and find strength in the moment. I also remind myself to prioritize and break tasks into smaller, more manageable steps. Sometimes, taking a short walk in nature or engaging in a creative activity, like photography, helps me reset my mind.
My advice for others feeling overwhelmed is to be kind to yourself and recognize that it’s okay to feel this way sometimes. It’s important to take breaks and practice self-care, whether that’s through prayer, meditation, or simply resting. Setting realistic expectations and seeking support from loved ones or colleagues can also be incredibly helpful. And remember, it’s okay to ask for help when you need it—there’s no need to carry everything alone. Trust in Allah’s (God’s) plan and find comfort in your faith during challenging times.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.serenitywellnessvi.com
- Instagram: @serenitywellnessvi @pali_focus
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1BvX21GDfi/?mibextid=wwXIfr
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