My Approach to Helping
I am a licensed clinical social worker with a Master's degree in Social Work from Azusa Pacific University, as well as a Master's degree in Psychology from California State University Los Angeles. I have 10+ years of experience working in the mental health field, including both in an inpatient psychiatric setting and a community-based mental health setting. I have worked with adults of all ages, from diverse ethnocultural and socioeconomic backgrounds, and/or the LGBTQ+ community. My experience includes working with individuals with various issues such as anxiety, depression, substance abuse, relationship issues, dual diagnosis, grief counseling, trauma, and women's issues. My passion for mental health began in college when I realized there are disproportionately few South Asian mental health professionals. Having immigrated from India to the United States as a child, I have experienced firsthand how attempting to acculturate can significantly impact one's mental health and overall wellbeing. My theoretical approach is largely client-centered, with the client leading the direction of their own treatment, as they are the foremost expert of their own life. I also incorporate various other therapeutic models such as the psychodynamic approach, feministic approach, and motivational interviewing. My goal is to help clients realize their potential as leaders of change in their own lives. I aim to provide a safe and welcoming environment for clients to share any issues they wish to bring to therapy without fear of judgment. As society continues to change, so do the issues that affect one's mental and emotional health. My goal is to remain up to date with various forms of interventions and to be a culturally competent therapist. In my eyes, providing the highest quality mental and emotional healthcare possible is of great importance to me as it not only benefits the individual but their relationships with others and society as a whole.