Get to know Aakanksha.

City & Background

Aakanksha Kanojia (She/Her) is a mental health counsellor from Gurugram who practices online and offline.

They're 33 years old and have been practicing since 5 years.

English, and Hindi are some of the languages they know, and hourly fee is (₹) 1,800 - 4,000.

Education

They have the following qualifications: M.A in Applied Psychology (Counselling Practices), TISS, Mumbai 2014.

Additional qualifications:Certificate Course in Queer Affirmative Counselling Practice by MHI, Mumbai,Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR)Therapy: Basic Level- 1 and 2 | Trauma Recovery (HAP) | EMDR Asia | EMDR Association of India,Diploma in Art Based Therapy, Renaissance Life Therapies by Libby Seery, U.K CPD Standards Office.

Why they became a therapist.

"The support I received from a therapist during my teenage years had a profound impact on my life. It amazed me that someone I barely knew could listen to me without judgment and truly understand my struggles. It made me realize that there was a whole field dedicated to understanding and supporting individuals in their emotional challenges. This realization sparked a calling within me to become a therapist myself, driven by a deep desire to make a …"

What they'd like a client's first session to be like.

"In the first therapy session, my primary goal is to create a safe and non-judgmental space where clients feel validated and understood. By establishing trust and rapport, clients can freely express themselves without fear of judgment. I emphasize confidentiality and the importance of building trust to help clients feel secure in exploring their concerns. Through active listening, probing questions, and exploration, I aim to help clients gain …"

How they make their practice a safe and affirmative space for queer and trans* folx.

"Firstly, it's important to create an inclusive and welcoming environment that respects and affirms their gender identity and sexual orientation. I choose inclusive language, respecting chosen pronouns and names, and avoiding making assumptions about their identity or experiences. It's also important to understand and be aware of the specific challenges and experiences that queer and trans* folx may face, such as discrimination, stigma, …"

Areas of concern they address in counselling.

"In my counselling practice, I address a range of concerns to support clients in their healing and personal growth. Some of the areas of concern I specialize in include depression, anxiety, complex post-traumatic stress disorder (C-PTSD), Trauma- related concerns body image issues, ADHD in children and adults, work-life balance, Grief, relationship conflicts, and childhood trauma. Additionally, I have extensive experience working with children …"

A Quote Aakanksha Resonates With.

"Sometimes, the bravest and most important thing you can do is just show up. ~ Brené Brown"