Get to know Arima.

City & Background

Arima Bhatnagar (She/Her) is a mental health counsellor from Mumbai who practices online.

They're 27 years old and have been practicing since 2 years.

English, and Hindi are some of the languages they know, and hourly fee is (₹) 2,000.

Education

They have the following qualifications: M.A. Clinical Psychology, SNDT, Mumbai 2022.

Additional qualifications:Introductory Course in Strength Based Counselling Models (Narrative Practices and Solution Focused Brief Therapy) by Raah: The Guided Path (April, 2023),Certificate Training Course in Career Guidance by Prafulta - Centre for Psychological Wellness (Sept. - Oct, 2023),Certificate Bootcamp on Inner Child Work by Skillfit by Fitment (March, 2025).

Why they became a therapist.

"Although my interest in psychology began years ago; when I first started studying it, I didn't imagine myself to be where I am today - in the seat of a therapist. I thought I'd be closer to academia and the research part of the field. However, it was something one of my professors said in Masters that inspired me to take this path. She told us how all fields of psychology are interconnected, and so we must learn about each. That day I …"

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

"At the heart of true therapeutic change lies the therapeutic relationship. I try to design the first session keeping this belief in mind. My hope always remains to balance a sense of safety and openness with structure and clarity. I hope that clients experience the session as a welcoming, non-judgmental place where they can feel safe and voice out their feelings, thoughts and other concerns. At the same time, I also wish for them to have a little …"

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

"I acknowledge that the challenges faced by those who belong to the community are unique and cannot be equated to that of the 'general' population. To better support my clients through these unique challenges, I regularly engage in psycho-educating myself about their challenges, specific needs and how one can best support them. I do this through readings, undertaking formal trainings and by dialoging with those from the community to better …"

Areas of concern they address in counselling.

"I tend to work best with and attract clients who may be struggling with procrastination, stress, work-life balance, communication issues, anxiety, mood dysregulations, relational concerns (romantic life, family dynamics) and intrapersonal challenges (self-esteem concerns and low self-confidence), to name a few. I am rooted in client-centered approaches, and am trauma informed. I aim to meet the client where they are at, and gently guide them …"

A Quote Arima Resonates With.

"Its scary because it is unfamiliar, not because you are incapable. Being nervous is part of the process. Give yourself grace as you grow."