Finding the Right Psychologist: A Personal Perspective

Here’s a glimpse into my professional journey:

My fascination with psychology began during my undergraduate studies at Jai Hind College in Mumbai. Psychology was an entirely new subject for me, yet from the moment I delved into it, I was captivated. The intricate workings of the human mind and the diversity of clinical presentations sparked a fascination that only grew deeper with time.

Eager to explore this newfound interest further, I pursued a double major in psychology. What began as curiosity quickly transformed into a profound passion. To nurture this passion, I continued my academic journey with a master’s program in clinical psychology at Maniben Nanawati Women’s College. Those two years were transformative, shaping my understanding of the field and solidifying my commitment to it.

It was during this time that my passion evolved into a mission—a mission to provide meaningful help and support to those in need. Over the past decade of working in this field, I’ve come to see being a psychologist as more than just a profession; it’s a calling. It demands purpose, dedication, and resilience.

For me, that purpose is rooted in the desire to create a lasting impact. I aspire to be remembered as someone who made a meaningful difference in people’s lives—someone who helped others navigate their challenges and uncover their inner strength. This vision fuels me every day and inspires the work I do as a psychologist.

My clinical journey, training and expertise –

Double Majors in Psychology – Jaihind College, Mumbai

Master’s in Psychology (Clinical Specialization) from Maniben Nanawati Women’s College, accredited to Shreemati Nathibai Damodar Thackersey (SNDT) University, Mumbai.

My research publication on comparative study of parenting styles and coping strategies used by parents of children with and without ADHD has been published in The International Journal of Indian Psychology in July, 2018.

Certified Advanced Master Practitioner of Cognitive Hypnotic Psychotherapy from the Institute of Clinical Hypnosis and Related Sciences (ICHARS, Reg. No CHBPL5NS12569), accredited by the General Hypnotherapy Standard’s Council (GHSC), Indian Board of Clinical Hypnotherapy and the Australian Hypnotherapist’s Association.

I have been certified to have attained the highest degree of competence and skill in integrating elements of Cognitive Therapies with Clinical Hypnotherapy and Neuro-Linguistic Programming.

• Diploma in Psychological Practice, College of Professional Psychology.

• Completed 1500 hours of supervision and training under a licensed psychologist in Australia (June 2023).

• Successful completion of the National Psychology Exam in Australia and Registered as a psychologist under the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (August 2023).

• Eye Movement Desensitised Reprocessing Therapy Training by the EMDR International Association and accredited by the EMDR Australia Association (March 2023).

• Dialectical Behaviour Therapy Training by Behavioural Tech Institute, USA (February 2024).

• Author – Macchina’s Adventures - Published debut children’s book independently, blending adventure, interactive storytelling, and emotional education for readers aged 6–12 (December 2024).

  
  

Embracing My Story: A Journey Through Healing and Growth

Growing up in Mumbai in a middle-class family of five, my childhood was a mix of opportunities and challenges. My parents were hardworking hustlers who did everything they could to give my brother and me a good life. We attended some of the best schools in the city and were encouraged to explore our interests. But behind the scenes of this picture-perfect narrative were experiences that shaped who I am today.

As a child, I was the shy one—a listener, an observer. In hindsight, my personality and experiences were the precursors to my journey as a psychologist specializing in trauma therapy. Being raised in a home with both working parents meant I spent a lot of time alone, cultivating a love for my own company and developing a limited social battery. My hyperactive younger brother taught me patience and understanding. Our financial limitations instilled in me an appreciation for hard work and resilience.

Yet, despite these silver linings, my formative years were far from easy.

In our household, managing the moods of adults and walking on eggshells was a norm. Emotional hypersensitivity became my default state, and precociousness my shield. Conversations about emotions were rare; stress was numbed by watching TV. This lack of emotional expression and understanding left me unable to articulate my own needs. As an adult, this translated into dysfunctional relationships. I craved affection from unhealthy men, stayed in abusive relationships, and developed an addictive mindset. My self-worth hinged on achievements; without them, I felt invisible.

I grew up believing that staying quiet made me a ‘good girl,’ which silenced my voice. In my pursuit to please everyone, I abandoned myself, desperately trying to fill an internal void.

Finding My Way Back

This emptiness, I now understand, was not something I could fill by keeping busy. For years, I immersed myself in ‘doing’—studying, overworking, learning multiple languages, volunteering, tutoring, and always being available for friends and family. I believed my value was tied to productivity. Which explains why I even named my earlier business ‘peaking productivity’! But no matter how much I did, the void followed me. It shaped my connections, my reactions, and my relationships.

The turning point came when I chose to stop running. I embraced my story—my truth—with no judgment, only deep compassion. Forgiving myself and others was a crucial step in this process. I had to accept that life isn’t always fair, and sometimes bad things happen without reason. And that’s okay.

I learned that I am the most important person in my story, that my needs and my voice matter. Healing isn’t a linear journey, and I’m still learning. But the progress I’ve made has enabled me to offer a safe, empathetic space to those seeking to understand their own struggles.

A Message for You

If my story resonates with you, I want you to know that change is possible. Patterns that no longer serve you can be broken. It takes courage to face your ghosts, but you don’t have to do it alone. My practice is a space where you can feel safe, understood, and empowered to uncover your story and start your journey toward healing.

It would be an honor to walk alongside you on this path, just as I have walked mine. Together, we can embrace your truth and build a life that feels authentic and fulfilling.