SALMA ABUBAKAR

Aspiring Counselor | Mental Health Advocate

No 3 Dorowa Road GRA, Zaria, NG

About

Highly empathetic and dedicated Guidance and Counseling student with practical experience in school and peer counseling environments. Passionate about fostering mental health, emotional well-being, and community support, aligning with organizations focused on creating safe and empowering spaces. Proven ability to build trust, maintain confidentiality, and provide thoughtful support to individuals navigating academic, emotional, and personal challenges.

Work Experience

Counseling Intern

Government Secondary School, Kwangila Zaria

Jan 2025 - Mar 2025

Zaria, Kaduna State, NG

Supported the school counseling unit by guiding students through academic and emotional challenges, enhancing student well-being and school environment.

  • Provided comprehensive support to the school counseling unit, addressing academic, emotional, and behavioral concerns for a diverse student population.
  • Conducted informal one-on-one counseling sessions, offering a confidential and empathetic space for students to discuss personal challenges and receive guidance.
  • Co-organized and facilitated impactful sensitization programs on critical topics such as self-esteem, discipline, and peer pressure, enhancing student awareness and coping mechanisms.
  • Maintained meticulous and confidential records of student progress, ensuring timely and discreet follow-up to support ongoing well-being and demonstrate commitment to ethical practice.

Peer Counselor

ABU Students' Wellness Group

Jan 2022 - Dec 2023

Zaria, Kaduna State, NG

Served as a trusted peer resource, providing empathetic support and facilitating open conversations on mental health challenges for fellow students.

  • Served as a trusted and accessible peer resource, providing immediate support to fellow students navigating difficult personal and academic challenges.
  • Facilitated open and non-judgmental conversations on sensitive topics including anxiety, family dynamics, relationships, and self-esteem, promoting mental wellness among peers.
  • Actively participated in regular peer training sessions, mastering active listening techniques, understanding referral systems, and deepening empathetic response.
  • Consistently provided a non-judgmental and supportive presence, significantly reducing feelings of isolation and fostering a sense of belonging among peers.

Education

Guidance and Counselling

Ahmadu Bello University

Sep 2021 - Jun 2025

Zaria, Kaduna State, NG

Certificates

Basic Counseling Skills Workshop

ABU Counseling Centre

Jan 2023

Mental Health Awareness Program

Students' Wellness Group

Jan 2023

Languages

English

Skills

Counseling & Support

  • Active Listening
  • Empathetic Communication
  • Individual Counseling
  • Group Facilitation
  • Crisis Intervention
  • Emotional Support
  • Guidance

Interpersonal & Communication

  • Relationship Building
  • Trust Building
  • Confidentiality
  • Non-Judgmental Support
  • Clear Communication
  • Patient Approach

Program Management

  • Program Development
  • Sensitization Programs
  • Workshop Facilitation
  • Record Keeping
  • Follow-up Procedures

Mental Health Advocacy

  • Mental Health Awareness
  • Behavioral Observation
  • Early Intervention
  • Referral Systems
  • Community Well-being

References

Dr. Aliyu Shika

Lecturer, Ahmadu Bello University (Phone and Email available upon request)