My Story/Professional Approach

My Story Professional Approach

During the impactful teen years, I emigrated from the United Kingdom to the United States of America. I was greeted with the difference in cultures (culture shock). Trying to blend in the Asian Indian, British, and American culture and values, presented their own challenges. Somehow, I had to blend the eastern (collectivistic) and western (individualistic) values, and stand straight with a smile. How does one do this? Well, first I needed to figure out who am I?

As you can imagine, there was a lot more going on behind the scenes. Will the American culture accept me? Do the Brits feel I am traitor? Will the Indian feel that I have no respect? One culture wants a girl to be submissive (ex. putting others first, offering food frequently, etc.) and the other cultures commonly expect a girl to communicate eye to eye (maybe or maybe not offer food depending on the situation). I wanted some guidance. Coming to a new country to live the rest of your life in, was a whole new story.

In my case, my parents were very supportive in whatever I did as long as I did not bring negative light to the family. Therefore, I wanted to find out who I am. I found myself a great and professional therapist. At first, it was nerve racking just to make an appointment due to being Indian, and the fear of feeling judged. Putting my nervousness aside, I was able to complete the formalities (paperwork and paid the fee).

My therapist was absolutely welcoming and respectful. In the very first session, she explained, “Arti, you haven’t lost your mind. It is okay, to not be okay. Your mind, body, and soul want to align with your morals and values.” She went onto say, “Arti, many people do not seek counseling because it seems to be a very taboo subject. It’s not like, going to the doctor’s office and getting a checkup. It is very hush hush, due to beliefs, family/friend’s pressure, and maybe personal ego. However, things are changing.” That is the day I realized that I want to assist in changing the mindset of all cultures; that obtaining therapy is as normal as going to the doctor’s office. I want to alleviate, if not remove, the stigma surrounding therapy.

Though there were times during sessions, where the therapist would ask me some questions which would make me become defensive/uncomfortable, I was able to work through that as well. By me having an open mind, actively participating and attending my scheduled sessions, I was able to achieve my goal; which was to be okay with my ever evolving self. Let’s face it, I am a blend of east and west, and I’m proud of it. This is what makes me unique. I had a very amazing therapeutic experience. Everyone has their own experiences, and with a great therapist, you too can begin to understand your own self. I would love the opportunity to utilize my therapeutic skills, training, and education to collaboratively help you achieve your goals and enrich your life.

My professional and respectful approach is Holistic because mind, body, and soul are all interconnected. It’s about putting you, the client first, whilst being culturally sensitive to all my clients. Making you feel comfortable, invited, respected, and obtain consultation where appropriate. I welcome you to be able to speak about the issues/concerns you would like to obtain help with. We’ll set goal(s) together as this is a collaborative effort in order to bring you to your meaningfully purpose and become a better human being. I believe the best therapy is the therapy that makes the most of your unique inherent strengths. There are various therapeutic approaches that bring out those strengths and unique abilities. It is all about empowering you, supporting you, enhance your coping skills, and helping you grow and encouraging you to be where you want to be.

Personally, I believe everyone can benefit from therapeutic services. Especially, when your friends, family, and loved ones are worried about you. When you are feeling challenged, stuck or struggling to complete what matters to you every day, your symptoms and your health are what interfere with your physical, emotional, social daily activities.

Through play therapy, we are able to work with young children to establish a warm and respectful connection to assist them to better deal with their person, social, pressures and struggles. By respectfully involving the parent(s)/caregiver(s) accordingly, the goal is more likely to be achieved. Consistency is key.

A therapeutic journey to growing and healing can have some waves along the way. By having an open mind, the commitment to attend, and actively participating can help enlighten your daily life, along with your relationships with others.

Therapy that may be utilized :

Holistic Therapy (A unique and personalized approach that combines different elements: Mind-body relaxation and meditation )

Play Therapy (Utilizing toys/games/books to help child to explore, express, and safely experience the difficulties they are going through)

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) (Change ways of thinking and coping)

Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) (Works on coping and reactions to stressful situations)

Psychodynamic Therapy (Focuses on past experiences shaping the current behaviors)

Humanistic Therapy (Find the power of an individual has, to change their life)

Solution-Focused (Finding solutions and looking at the strengths. Places focus on the individual’s present and future goals rather than past experiences)

Family Therapy (that can help family members to improve communication and resolve conflicts)

Group Therapy (A therapist works with a small group of clients. Creating a safe, supportive, and cohesive space to address personal, relationship and societal issues)

And many more wonderful Evidence Based Therapies

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