Get to know Rutuja.

City & Background

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

They're 29 years old and have been practicing since 4 years.

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

Education

They have the following qualifications: Masters in Psychology (Clinical) .

Additional qualifications:Completion of the Queer Affirmative Counseling Practice From Mariwala Health Initiative,Participating in a Webinar Series 'Working With Trauma Facilitated by Hank Nunn Institute,Completion of Advanced Training Course in RECBT From In-Vivo.

Why they became a therapist.

"Friends and others around me often observed how easily I connect with people and that I have the ability to actively engage with them. I later noticed that I also loved listening to other people’s stories, and I would be quite fascinated by them. Hence, I was certain that I wanted to work in a profession that allows me to connect directly with people around me, and possibly also be in a position to be a facilitator of their emotional health. My …"

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

"I prioritize creating a safe and non-judgmental space which can provide my clients the comfort to speak freely about their concerns and also feel hopeful as they work towards addressing them. Hence, it is quite crucial for me to build a strong rapport and connection that encourages open communication, emotional expression and vulnerability. Before the first session I offer a free consultation to gain a brief understanding of the prospective …"

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

"I believe that all practice should be affirmative and inclusive, and to create a safe space, I prioritize the use of inclusive language, refrain from making assumptions, remain mindful of my personal biases, and actively question the conditioning of a heteronormative lens. I understand that the concerns of queer and trans* clients are often stemming from systemic issues, that is, their non-acceptance by others, their denial, invisibility, and …"

Areas of concern they address in counselling.

"In my therapeutic practice, I address a range of clinical concerns including anxiety, depression and substance use. I also support clients dealing with relationship issues, namely romantic or platonic relationships, as well as parent-child dynamics. Emotional distress such as overthinking, low self-esteem, and managing daily stressors is another area I work on with clients. Additionally, I assist individuals in exploring and overcoming …"

A Quote Rutuja Resonates With.

"'Well done,' said the horse. 'For what?' asked the boy. 'For hoping, for taking a step, for trying again, not giving up.' ~ Charlie Mackesy"