Get to know Ria.

City & Background

Ria Kumar (She/Her) is a mental health counsellor from Bengaluru who practices online. They practice in Indiranagar.

They're 26 years old and have been practicing since over 1 year.

Hindi, and English are some of the languages they know, and hourly fee is (₹) 1,500.

Education

They have the following qualifications: MA Counselling Psychology (Lifespan Counselling), St Xavier's College, Mumbai.

Why they became a therapist.

"To me, therapy work is about breaking cycles, and supporting people in an increasingly individualistic world where communities find it “inconvenient” or “irrational” for persons to experience mental health concerns, and are unable to provide adequate support. There is something very fulfilling about holding space and offering understanding and compassion to someone, when you know that is what younger versions of you needed. I have only …"

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

"A sense of safety and a feeling that their therapist is a real person with genuine concern for their well-being. The assurance that their therapist is genuinely curious to hear and honor their story. For them to know that the promise of the therapeutic space is real after all."

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

"I am mindful of asking and stating pronouns. I am clear on my stance and communicate it directly when needed - I ensure it is explicitly stated in all my public profiles. I remain aware of my status as an ally and the privilege attached to it. I refrain from making any assumptions or generalizations about someone's lived experience. While it may be important to explore social identities - personal identities and unique narratives are to be …"

Areas of concern they address in counselling.

"I primarily work with adolescents and young adults. I work with a range of psychological concerns; self esteem, identity, family conflict, interpersonal problems, history of abuse or neglect, romantic relationships, workplace difficulties, anxiety/worry/stress, anger, emotional dysregulation, grief, feelings of shame, feelings of sadness, sleep-related concerns."

A Quote Ria Resonates With.

"Courage, dear heart ~ C.S. Lewis, The Voyage of the Dawn Treader"