In grade 8, I came across Psychology by chance. Having no understanding prior to this, I searched and read about psychology and what does this study of behaviour mean. While growing up, I used to observe people around me and be very confused by their actions and behaviours. I would always have questions about the whys and how’s of things. This curiosity led me to become a counsellor to undertake the understanding of human behaviour.

To being able to witness the stories of individuals. Not just their difficulties but also small joys and wins. Having the privilege to being co-traveller with them.

I feel that there are lot of expectations on getting it “right” in the first therapy session. I believe that therapy is a journey and it takes a while to get it right. My hope is that I am able to help my clients to co-create their hopes for this process. To have a space of resonance and gentleness for themselves. A space where they can be heard and seen.

Therapy is for everyone and there is no criteria to start therapy. Therapy as a space is not just for when there are struggles but also a space for personal growth and development. Therapy sessions are for you and will always be so.

When you take the first step of reaching out to a therapist, ask them questions about their educational qualifications, their approaches, their fees and etc. Then ask yourself these questions: 1. Do I feel safe with them? 2. Do I feel heard and seen? Once you have answers to these questions, go ahead with the professional then. It’s okay to even change your therapist or take a break from therapy if you feel therapy isn’t helpful.

Always know that therapy is your space.

A therapeutic relationship is built on trust, respect and gentleness. This is something that I strive to build with my clients. I feel that this relationship is a collaborative one. It’s a privilege to be a part of somebody’s inner world and I appreciate it. I strive to create a space where my clients feel comfortable in letting me know if I haven’t understood them.

I believe that my job is not to fix people as inherently they aren’t broken and I don’t know what does it mean to live their lives. I am here to co-create space along with them where they can be seen and heard and validated.

My greatest learning is that individuals are always responding to their situations, challenges and environments. While therapy gives them some tools and techniques to navigate better but individuals do know how to respond in their own unique ways.

Another learning which I have gained is that people often don’t always need a solutions, what they really want is to have a space of being heard and seen.

My curiosity as a person is my greatest strengths as a therapist. I approach the process of therapy with lot of compassion, gentleness and slowness. My ability to listen and observe is another strength of mine. I believe I am a lifelong learner. I am constantly learning, unlearning and relearning.

I enjoy reading, writing short stories, and documenting memories through journaling and clicking pictures. When I’m not working, I’m either watching K-Dramas or Shahrukh Khan’s films, cooking, or taking naps (I take my naps very seriously!)

The primary therapeutic approach which I use is client centred approach. This means that I believe that client is an expert of their lives while I am here to help them to navigate their challenges and difficulties. Another approach which I use is narrative ideas and practices which means that problem is the problem and the person is not the problem. My practice also incorporates philosophies of feminism, social justice and impacts of societal systems on peoples’ lives.

I am someone who follows the policy of “ask and not assume.” While introducing myself, I share my pronouns. I ask my clients for their pronouns and names which they would want me to use. I share my pronouns on social media handles as well as communication channels. I update myself with articles, courses and media. Using “they/them” pronouns while talking about third person. I have references for therapists and support groups who are queer affirmative in their beliefs and practice.