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Why did you choose to become a counsellor?
I chose to become a counselor because Iāve always been deeply curious about the human experience, how we’re all so unique, yet share so many common threads when it comes to our minds and emotions. As a teenager, I realized that while there are many professionals who help when the body is in pain, there are far fewer who focus on helping when the mind and heart are struggling and practice with expertise and ethics. That realization sparked a passion in me to offer a space where people can truly be heard and understood. My empathy, curiosity, and ability to create that safe, reflective space for growth led me to this profession. What keeps me in this field is the constant learning, itās a journey where every client is a new opportunity to grow, both as a professional and as a person. Itās this beautiful combination of helping others while always being fascinated by the endless complexity of human beings that drives me every day. No matter how much experience you have you cannot predict what another client can bring to the table and that’s the beauty of this profession.
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What excites you about your work as a counsellor?
What excites me most about my work as a counselor is the opportunity to connect with new people and truly listen to their unique stories. Every person I meet brings a new perspective, and it’s fascinating to witness how individuals carry so much, sometimes without even realizing it. Each person navigates lifeās challenges in their own way, often finding different meanings and outcomes from similar experiences. This diversity of thought and emotion makes every session an exciting learning journey, not just for my clients, but for me as well.
Iām especially passionate about using creative arts in my practice. Art provides such a powerful, subtle way to unlock and explore emotions. It allows my clients to express what words alone canāt always capture, offering a safe, nonverbal space to process and heal. Whether itās through drawing, music, or other forms of creativity, I get to witness the transformative power of self-expression firsthand. The way art can help someone connect with their inner world and move through difficult emotions is nothing short of magical.
The most rewarding part of my work is being a part of someoneās healing journeyāwatching them uncover new insights about themselves and grow. Itās an honor to walk alongside them as they tap into their own creativity and resilience. For me, every day in this work is a reminder of the beauty of human connection and the power of empathy.
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What do you hope for your clients to experience after their first session with you?
After our first session, my hope is that client leaves feeling truly heard, understood, and supported in a safe and welcoming space. I know that starting therapy can feel a bit daunting, so my goal is to help client feel more comfortable and a little less uncertain about the process. Weāll take time to discuss what therapy will look like and what you client can expect moving forward, so they feel informed and empowered. Most importantly, I want our first session to mark the beginning of a journey that feels authentic, supportive, and safe. They can trust that weāll go at client’s pace and work together to create a space where they can explore, grow, and heal.
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What would you wish to tell a client who is thinking about seeking counselling?
Taking the step to start therapy is a big and brave decision, it requires immense courage to reach out and share your feelings and experiences, especially with someone you may not know well. I want you to know that even though it can feel difficult at first, you are entering a safe and non-judgmental space. This is a place where you can be yourself, without fear of criticism, and where we will work together to explore and understand you on a deeper level.
Therapy is a partnership. Both of us will actively co-create this space, making efforts to support your growth. Through this process, you will not only confront the challenges you face, but also uncover your strengths and discover more about who you are. One important thing to remember is that therapy is not a linear journey, there will be ups and downs. Not every session will leave you feeling better, and thatās completely normal. Some days may bring reflection, while others may uncover deeper truths, and thatās part of the healing process.
Also, it’s important to know that in therapy, your voice matters. You have the right to express how you feel at any time and provide feedback when needed. If you ever feel anger or frustration, even towards me as your therapist and thatās okay, too. Being able to discuss anything openly, while still feeling safe, is a sign of a healthy and trusting therapeutic relationship.
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Describe the relationship that you would wish to build with your client in counselling.
I aim to develop a therapeutic relationship with my clients that is deeply rooted in trust, authenticity, and transparency. For me, therapy is a partnership where we explore the unexplored parts of your experience together. I want my clients to feel that this is a space where they can be fully themselves, knowing they are supported without judgment. I truly value feedback in the therapeutic relationship, and I make sure to integrate it into the process, as it helps shape and strengthen our work together. Ultimately, I see this as a genuine relationship built on mutual respect, open communication, and ongoing support, where both of us are actively engaged in your journey of growth and healing.
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In your counselling work so far, what has been your greatest learning from your clients?
My greatest learning from my clients so far has been the profound reminder that the journey of self-discovery and healing is endless. There are times in therapy when it may feel like nothing is happening, but those moments often lead to breakthroughs in the most unexpected ways. Iāve learned that thereās always more to explore, and that sometimes growth occurs quietly beneath the surface. This reminds me that thereās always the possibility of learning something new, both about my clients and myself, and that the process of healing is never truly finishedāit unfolds in its own time and in surprising ways. Additionally, I’ve come to realize that the body often captures things unknowinglyāemotions, experiences, and memoriesāeven when the mind feels like it hasn’t been impacted. Itās incredible how the body holds onto what we may not even be consciously aware of, and therapy often helps uncover those hidden layers.
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What are some of your strengths as a counsellor that you value and appreciate?
I believe the most important quality a therapist should possess is empathy, and I feel that this is one of my core strengths. I have a natural ability to see each person as a human being first, which allows me to connect on a deeper level and appreciate both our shared similarities and the unique qualities that each individual brings to the table. Patience is another strength of mine; it helps me meet clients where they are and hold space for them in a way that feels supportive and non-judgmental.
I also deeply value the mind-body connection and integrate this understanding into my practice. My qualifications in using creative, alongside traditional talk therapy, allow me to explore and uncover emotions and experiences from both a cognitive and embodied perspective. This approach enhances my versatility as a therapist, enabling me to support clients in a more holistic way.
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What are some of the things you like to do in your free time?
In my free time, I enjoy embracing my creative side as both an artist and a psychologist. Dance has been a passion of mine since childhood, I have been learning and practicing different dance styles since childhood and for the past eight years, I’ve been learning Kathak. Along with dancing, I love music, exploring different art forms, and sometimes writing poetry to express myself. I also have a small garden that I take great joy in tending to, nurturing my ‘plant babies.’ Nature is another big love of mine, I find peace and inspiration in spending time outdoors, roaming through its wonders, and learning from its rhythms.
I also deeply value spending time with my loved ones, whether it’s enjoying quiet moments together or simply being present without any agenda. As a lifelong learner, Iām always curious and in search of new knowledge, and I consider myself someone whoās always looking for ‘good food for my brain.’ Whether itās through books, conversations, or new experiences, I find endless joy in learning and growing.
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What are the areas of concern you address in counselling? Do you work with specific populations?
I mostly work with young and middle-aged population. My practice includes but not limited to anxiety, depression, stress, loss and grief, interpersonal relationship issues, existential concerns, trauma, Self- awareness, self-care. I do depth and growth oriented long-term work.
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What is the therapeutic approach you use? How would you describe it to someone who wants to consult you for therapy?
My therapeutic approach is eclectic, which means I draw from various frameworks and techniques, adapting them to the unique needs of each client. While I use a blend of approaches, my practice is deeply grounded in the person-centered framework, which holds that each client has the capacity to know what is best for them. My role as a counselor is to create a safe, supportive environment where clients can explore, reflect, and gain deeper understanding of themselves, allowing them to work towards their own growth.
In addition, my training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) helps me understand how a person’s thoughts influence their behavior. This structured approach is particularly helpful when clients seek clarity or need practical tools to navigate their challenges.
As a trained expressive arts therapy practitioner, I integrate creative arts modalities like movement, music, drama, visual arts, and poetry into the therapeutic process. These approaches allow clients to express and process their emotions on a deeper, embodied level, offering new ways to explore and understand their experiences.
What makes my practice unique is that I value each client as a whole person, bringing both empathy and inclusivity to the relationship. I believe this holistic, flexible approach provides a more well-rounded, individualized path for healing and self-discovery.
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How do you make your therapeutic practice a safe and affirmative space for queer and trans* folx?
I make my therapeutic practice a safe and affirmative space for queer folx by prioritizing inclusivity, respect, and understanding. I ensure that clients feel seen and heard by using their preferred names and pronouns, and I create an environment free from judgment. I aim to validate their experiences and identity, fostering a space where they can explore their challenges openly.
I also believe in transparency and openly acknowledge the gaps in my knowledge and understanding, actively seeking to grow in these areas. My goal is to provide a supportive environment where clients feel empowered to explore their identities, and where their experiences as individuals are fully validated.
To inform myself of affirmative practices, I engage in ongoing education, read more, and stay updated on LGBTQ+ issues and language. I also make a conscious effort to be aware of the unique experiences of queer individuals, particularly in relation to societal challenges, and integrate this understanding into my work.
The Quote Pratiksha Resonates With
The good life is a process, not a state of being. It's action, not a destination
Carl Rogers.