Is it permissible to supplicate by reciting the first half of Surat Al-Fatihah, then mentioning one's need, with the intention that what is being recited is a supplication and not a [mere] recitation?

The first verses of Surah Al-Fatihah include praise of Allah, extolling Him, glorifying Him, and singling Him out for worship and seeking aid. Then comes the supplication for guidance to the Straight Path. A Muslim should understand this when reciting it: after praising and glorifying Allah, one asks Him for guidance. Among the etiquettes of supplication and reasons for its acceptance is to begin by praising Allah and invoking blessings upon His Prophet. What the questioner did—supplicating after reciting the first part of Al-Fatihah with the intention of praising Allah—falls under this category. Indeed, what has been reported in the Prophet’s supplication (peace and blessings be upon him) before reciting Al-Fatihah in the night prayer indicates the permissibility of this.