Get to know Lavanya.

City & Background

Lavanya Kaushal (She/Her) is a mental health counsellor from Hyderabad who practices online and offline. They practice in Banjara Hills.

They're 26 years old and have been practicing since 3 years.

English, and Hindi are some of the languages they know, and hourly fee is (₹) 2,000 - 3,000.

Education

They have the following qualifications: M.A. Applied Psychology (Specialization in clinical psychology),B. A. (Hons) Psychology.

Why they became a therapist.

"My choice to become a counsellor stemmed from my own personal experience with a counsellor when I was going through a tough phase. It helped me understand what potential therapy and counselling have in helping people navigate through life, and it was something I could see myself doing."

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

"I want my clients to feel safe, heard and validated in the therapy space. I aim to co-create a space wherein they feel confident enough to share things which they have been unable to share in other spaces, and a space wherein they feel comfortable in being themselves."

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

"I refrain from making assumptions about a person with respect to their gender and sexuality, I respect and use pronouns which clients prefer for themselves. I also make sure to read up and educate myself on queer and trans issues. In case I am unsure/unaware about something, I make sure to ask in a non-judgmental manner, and not assume."

Areas of concern they address in counselling.

"I specialize in working with adults and adolescents, many of whom present with anxiety, depression, concerns related to self-esteem and self-image, relationship issues, inability to cope with stress, traumatic childhood and past experiences."

A Quote Lavanya Resonates With.

"I remember asking him (his teacher) once- What would you call this patient, schizophrenic or schizoaffectiive? He paused and stroked his chin, apparently in deep thought. He replied- I think I'd call him Micheal McIntyre ~ Bessel van der Kolk (The Body Keeps the Score)"