I find a natural inclination towards alleviating human suffering and enabling human potential to thrive. In my own journey of reclaiming my mental wellbeing, counseling / therapy has played an important role. When I first started offering Mindfulness-Based and Presence-Oriented Counseling sessions, the feedback from my clients was very encouraging and I discovered that I have a natural gift/skill to offer to the world in the form of being a deep, empathetic listener and as someone who is genuinely interested & curious to unravel the mystery of human mind.

The unique beauty and complexity of human heart & mind and the immense potential for each human being to tap into their innate wisdom. It is truly gratifying to hold this sacred, safe, intimate space for my clients, to be a ‘witness’ & a ‘mirror’ in which we both can begin to see ourselves more clearly.

1. Basic mindfulness practices that they can do on their own 2. a sense of safety and trust in our relational space 3. a sense of positive self-regard and hope

1. “This is not a ‘quick fix’ or ‘silver bullet’ .
2. It needs time, consistency and commitment to the self-process
3. I am not here to advise you or to ‘problem-solve’, however, I am fully committed to your wellbeing during this journey that we walk together
4. I trust in your innate wisdom and wholeness and we are in this together. Anything you wish to share in this safe space is welcome, to the degree you feel comfortable–it is held confidential and honored without any judgements.
5. Mindfulness and Presence-Orientation approach to psychotherapy draws from interpersonal neurobiology, neuroscience, attachment theory, somatic and energy psychology, trauma resolution principles and mindfulness-based cognitive behavioural work. This work is also informed by key principles from Buddhist Psychology, Yogic philosophy and other wisdom traditions. My daily practice of Vipassana Meditation greatly supports in holding a therapeutic space for my clients.

with my clients, I intend to cultivate a relationship of trust, openness, respect, clear professional & ethical boundaries, genuine care and compassion. I am committed to their wellbeing and safety. I see my role as a companion, a witness and a compassionate presence in their own journey of self exploration. the process is client-led to the most part. I am constantly checking with them what is arising moment-to-moment–what they need and what is comfortable/unconfortable for them etc. their preference and openness to a mindfulness practice is honored, clients usually take back with them a weekly / bi-weekly task/intention/practice/assignment/experiment that they choose to take on until our next session and that we review together when they come back

To the degree I have worked on myself (inner work), is the degree to which I am able to hold a supportive space for my clients. my genuine, wholehearted, attentive presence is the greatest gift I bring to my counseling practice.

1. compassionate, grounded, calm presence.
2. intuitive, creative and spontaneous approach
3. friendliness and light-warm-heartedness

Yoga, Gardening, Reading, Bicycling, Swimming, time with family and friends, travel, meditation, art, silent nature walks

My approach to counseling is termed as ‘Mindfulness and Presence-Oriented Psychotherapy’. It is a non-directive process which draws from universal human values such as Compassion, Empathy, Gratitude, Kindness and Mindfulness. The fundamental belief in this approach is that each individual human being is ‘whole’ and moving towards greater ‘wholeness’. The innate wisdom is guiding us. By creating a safe, deep-listening, therapeutic relational space, we allow this wisdom to reveal itself fully with greater ease. Somatic awareness, bodily movement, art, journaling, reflections, behavioral actions, role-plays, affirmations, mindfulness and grounding practices are brought in as and when appropriate and supportive.

Whenever I have had queer/trans clients open up to me about thier issues, I have been genuinely open and empathetic, without any judgements–thus making them feel safe and supported. I would like to continue to educate myself more about this particular population and equip myself further to be affirmative with them.