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 25 years old and have been practicing since 1 year.

Hindi, and English are some of the languages they know, and hourly fee is (₹) 1,100.

Education

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

Why they became a therapist.

"The "wounded healer trope" is a trope for a reason :) There is something very fulfilling about holding space and offering acceptance, understanding and compassion to someone, when you know that is what your younger versions needed. I have only recently started viewing sensitivity and softness as strengths, and this is a profession that allows me to apply those qualities for a greater purpose. To me therapy work is about breaking cycles, …"

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"