Get to know Lalitha.

City & Background

Lalitha Pooja (She/Her) is a mental health counsellor from Bengaluru who practices online.

They're 34 years old and have been practicing since 6 years.

Telugu, Hindi, English, and Tamil are some of the languages they know, and hourly fee is (₹) 2,500.

Education

They have the following qualifications: M.Sc in Applied Psychology (Specialization in Counselling), St Francis College for Women (2019), MBA, Alliance School of Business (2014),B.Com,University of Madras (April 2011).

Additional qualifications:Queer Affirmative Counselling Practice, MHI, December 2020,Short Term Training Program in Narrative Ideas & Practice, Ummeed 2019.

Why they became a therapist.

"I was working in finance when I started to feel deeply affected by the stories I kept coming across—stories of abuse, especially against women and children. There was a growing sense of grief about the world we live in. I knew I had to try to bring in some difference. I left my job and returned to studying, eventually becoming a counsellor. I wanted to work directly with people and communities, to offer support, to hold space, and to be part of …"

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

"After a first session, I hope clients leave with a sense that this is a space where they can be themselves — where they feel seen, not judged, and don’t have to explain everything all at once. I work from a relational approach, so for me, building trust is at the heart of the process. I know that opening up takes time, and I don’t expect that to happen right away. What matters most in the beginning is that clients feel gently met, and maybe …"

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

"I am committed to understanding the nuances of Queer and Trans lives through listening to lived experiences, using inclusive language, and continuously learning and unlearning. I actively seek out workshops, community spaces and conversations led by Queer (Kink) and Trans people to deepen this understanding. I also stay informed about the laws and health systems that impact and support Trans communities. I also remain mindful of the privileges I …"

Areas of concern they address in counselling.

"I work with adolescents and adults navigating a range of concerns, including anxiety, depression, grief, relationship challenges, abuse, trauma, and other mental health experiences. I also have experience working with people from Queer, Neurodivergent and Disabled communities."

A Quote Lalitha Resonates With.

"“You do not have to be good. You only have to let the soft animal of your body love what it loves.” ~ Wild Geese, by Mary Oliver"