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Niya Mental Health Initiative LLP
Flat # 18, 4th floor,
Uttam Towers, Opp. Aga Khan Palace,
Nagar Road, Pune-411006 - admin@niyamentalhealth.in
- +91 9699 664 204
About Nimisha Chandran
Nimisha Chandran is a Clinical Psychologist (RCI Registered – CRR A72392) with an M.Phil in Clinical Psychology from Gwalior Mansik Arogyashala and an M.Sc in Psychology from Banaras Hindu University. She is a trauma-informed practitioner with experience across clinical and academic settings, including DY Patil Medical College and Hospital, Symbiosis University, Pune, and Antara Psychiatric Hospital, Kolkata.
She works with adolescents and young adults across concerns such as anxiety, depression, OCD, trauma, relationship difficulties, and self-esteem challenges. In addition to therapy, Nimisha conducts comprehensive psychological assessments, including IQ, personality, aptitude, and projective techniques such as Rorschach and TAT.
Her work is grounded in a thoughtful, client-centred approach and a commitment to ethical, evidence-based care.
My Approach to Psychotherapy
My approach to psychotherapy is eclectic, collaborative, and tailored to each individual. I draw from Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), and Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), integrating these approaches based on the client’s needs.
I view therapy as a shared process of understanding experiences, building insight, and developing practical ways to navigate challenges. My work is trauma-informed and paced with care, ensuring that clients feel supported as they engage with difficult emotions and patterns.
I aim to create a safe, non-judgemental, and supportive space where clients can explore their concerns openly and work toward meaningful and sustainable change.
Simran is a Psychologist and trauma-informed practitioner with a Master’s degree in Clinical Psychology. She is trained in EMDR (Part 1), Marriage & Family Counselling, Gifted Education & Counselling, Trauma-Informed Therapy, and Emotion-Focused Therapy.
She works with adolescents and adults navigating trauma, grief, emotional distress, self-esteem concerns, life transitions, and relationship difficulties. Simran brings particular sensitivity to individuals who may appear functional outwardly but experience an underlying sense of overwhelm, disconnection, or feeling “stuck.”
Her work is grounded in ethical, reflective practice and an ongoing commitment to professional development, allowing her to remain responsive to diverse client needs.
My Approach to Psychotherapy
My approach is integrative, collaborative, and tailored to each individual. I draw from experiential and somatic modalities such as EMDR, along with cognitive-behavioural and attachment-focused frameworks. I understand emotional difficulties as shaped by past experiences and relational patterns, and therapy as a process of exploring and working through these with care and depth. The pace of therapy is guided by each client’s readiness, supporting both insight and gradual, meaningful change.
I aim to create a safe, grounded, and non-judgemental space where clients can engage with their inner world with honesty, supported by steady attunement and care.
Sherin brings a strong academic and practical foundation in psychology, with a research-oriented approach and a keen understanding of professional mental health practice. She is detail-oriented and contributes to building and strengthening organisational systems.
Her work focuses on shaping how NMHI communicates and engages with professionals, collaborators, and the wider community. By ensuring that outreach remains research-informed, well-structured, and aligned with professional standards, she supports clarity and consistency in external engagement.
Through thoughtful branding and sustained professional partnerships, Sherin contributes to NMHI’s growth as a credible and valued presence in the evolving mental health landscape.
Lavina brings over three years of experience across care coordination, marketing, and business development, combining psychological insight with operational clarity. At Niya Mental Health Initiative, her work supports the mission of making mental health care accessible, ethical, and responsive.
She focuses on strengthening the client journey,from first contact to continued engagement, by streamlining follow-ups, optimizing therapy scheduling, and ensuring smooth coordination. With a strong belief that care extends beyond therapy sessions, she works through thoughtful communication and structured systems to reduce logistical barriers and create a sense of safety and continuity at every touchpoint.
She also contributes to building a value-driven student community and shaping NMHI’s external communication, ensuring that its social media presence reflects clarity, credibility, and trust
About Swaruti
Swaruti is a psychologist, skilled psychotherapist, and experienced mindfulness practitioner who creates safe, heart-centered spaces for healing, reflection, and growth. With over six years of experience in the field of psychology, she brings a gentle, presence-oriented approach to her work , one that honors each person’s unique journey and inner wisdom.
She holds a Master’s degree in Clinical Psychology and has specialized training in presence-oriented psychotherapy, which allows her to deeply attune to her clients’ moment-to-moment experiences. An avid conversationalist and thoughtful listener, Swaruti is known for her grounded presence, steady compassion, and the quiet strength she brings into every space she holds.
Whether working with individuals, groups, or communities, Swaruti is deeply committed to creating spaces that are both brave and gentle — where people feel seen, heard, and supported.
My Approach to Psychotherapy
My work is rooted in the belief that each person holds an inherent capacity to heal, cope, and grow — and that therapy is a space where we can gently reconnect with that inner strength. I offer experiential sessions that go beyond just talking. Alongside thoughtful dialogue and reflection, we explore body-based practices, mindfulness, and experiential tools that support real-time awareness and integration.
I see therapy as a space for exploration, unlearning, and relearning. A place to question old beliefs, examine emotional patterns, and practice well-being in ways that feel authentic and sustainable. I aim to create a space where you can be yourself — without judgment, pressure, or the need to “perform” — and where healing can happen at your pace, in your way.
My approach is heart-centered, trauma-sensitive, and grounded in ethics. I believe that long-term, sustainable mental health practices — not just temporary relief — lay the foundation for lasting change and deeper connection with yourself.
About Dr. Alphonsa George
Dr. Alphonsa George is a Couple and Family Therapist, Mental Health Trainer, and Research Consultant with over a decade of experience across clinical practice, academia, and community-based mental health interventions. With a PhD in Psychiatric Social Work from NIMHANS, Bengaluru, she brings a systemic perspective to therapy that integrates both evidence-based knowledge and deep engagement with lived realities. Her work spans diverse populations and social contexts, including marginalized communities, and reflects a commitment to social justice in mental health care.
My Approach to Psychotherapy:
Grounded in empathy and relational attunement, my approach to psychotherapy is collaborative, inclusive, and strengths-based. My philosophy is integrative and client-centred, drawing from systemic, emotion-focused, structural, strategic, and other evidence-informed practices tailored to each client’s needs. I work from a queer-affirmative and trauma-informed lens, recognizing how identity, culture, and social context shape emotional experiences and relational dynamics.
I strive to co-create therapeutic spaces that are safe, non-judgemental, validating, and growth-oriented—where clients feel deeply seen, supported, and empowered to explore their inner landscapes. Whether working with individuals, couples, or families, my practice is guided by a commitment to honour each person’s lived truth, resilience, and capacity for change. I believe healing unfolds when people are met with compassion and respect, free from judgement or imposed expectations. As a therapist, my role is to walk alongside—holding space for reflection, meaningful connection, and transformation.
About Sanchita
Sanchita Johri has a Master’s degree in Applied Psychology from Faculty of Arts, South Campus University of Delhi (2016). With almost a decade of work experience in various fields of mental health as a Counseling Psychologist and a Psychotherapist, she is a certified mental health first aider on suicide prevention and grief & bereavement. She is currently in-training to be a Group Analyst from Institute of Group Analysis UK, in collaboration with Hank Nunn Institute Bangalore. Her professional career involved exposure to diverse settings, including counselling adolescents and adults at a government shelter homes, community play-based assessments as a Research Associate for children with Autism, grassroot psychological gatekeeping for former sex workers of Delhi’s Red-Light district and youth with substance use. She has worked with mental health concerns at various intersections of marginalisation and privilege. Sanchita maintains high ethics when it comes to working with clients and is undergoing her own individual and group therapy and also actively engaging in weekly group supervision spaces. Sanchita believes in continuous learning and constantly looking to update and deepen her skill set and therapeutic repertoire. These avenues of learning have informed her lens as a therapist and deepened the integrative nature of her therapy work.
My Approach in Therapy
I work with psychodynamic and relational schools of psychotherapy that emphasize on dialogue between a client and the therapist. My goal is to collaboratively work with the client towards greater understanding of their personal goals and values. I tend to focus on the emotional distress one experiences in a socio-political-cultural landscape, experiences of the past and how it plays out for them in the present day-to-day functioning of one’s mind, body, and in the interactions with the world around in a humanistic approach than through a diagnostic lens. My in-depth orientation may go as per client’s pace as she focuses on growing through-going through grief.
I offer a safe and a non-judgemental space to build an authentic therapeutic experience where compassion, empathy, acceptance and vulnerability are core components that truly facilitate the change process as they allow individuals to navigate through their blocks of doubts and emotions and enable them to work through their inner world.
Outside of work, Sanchita polishes her vocal skills as an Indian classical singer in training, casual painter and reading and walking in nature where go with the slow to allow things to flow is her mantra.
Taniya Iqbal is a licensed Clinical Psychologist, recognised for her expertise in evidence-based therapy and psychological assessments. She specializes in projective assessments, particularly the Rorschach test, and is proficient in neuropsychological testing. She holds an M.Phil. in Clinical Psychology from IMHANS-K and a Master’s in Psychology from the University of Kashmir. With experience in clinical, counseling, and organizational settings, she works with children and adults, providing individual, parental, and couple therapy. Her expertise spans Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and trauma-informed care. She is skilled in psychological testing, including IQ evaluations, projective techniques, and neuropsychological assessments, with a special focus on anxiety, mood disorders (especially Bipolar), OCD, personality disorders, trauma, and neurodevelopmental challenges.
My Approach to Psychotherapy
I believe therapy is a collaborative journey that empowers individuals to navigate challenges and foster personal growth. My approach is eclectic, integrating various therapeutic modalities to meet each client’s unique needs. I prioritize creating a safe, supportive space where clients feel heard and valued. Whether working individually or with couples and families, I focus on holistic care, addressing emotional, psychological, and relational dynamics to bring meaningful and lasting change.
Dr. Shilpa K S is a licensed Clinical Psychologist accredited by the Rehabilitation Council of India, with academic credentials including an M.Phil. and Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from NIMHANS (National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences). Her professional journey has focused on understanding and addressing the multifaceted mental health needs of individuals with mental health concerns. Specializing in the treatment of violence survivors, Dr. Shilpa has obtained certifications in both basic and advanced levels of Narrative Exposure Therapy, a pivotal trauma informed approach in her practice. Her research, centered on assessing the feasibility of Narrative Exposure Therapy for women survivors of intimate partner violence, underscores her interest in vulnerable populations. Additionally, her areas of expertise encompass common mental disorders, women’s mental health, and the complexities of psychological trauma. Dr. Shilpa’s therapeutic approach is characterised by a blend of trauma-informed care (Narrative Exposure Therapy) Schema Therapy and Rational Emotive Behaviour Therapy. She offers couple therapy with a focus on helping partners navigate relational dynamics, emotional intimacy, and shared mental health challenges.
Anshruta (She/Her) holds a Master’s degree in Clinical and Counselling Psychology and is a Gold Medalist from Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS), Mumbai. With over three years of experience, she has worked extensively with clients aged 16 to 50, addressing diverse mental health concerns such as anxiety-spectrum disorders, depression, social phobia, panic attacks, OCD, ADHD, stress, and relationship and work-related challenges. Anshruta is adept at providing psychotherapy in both online and in-person formats.
She continuously updates her skills through courses and supervision in the latest developments in mental health, ensuring her methods are evidence-based and contemporary. Additionally, she has expertise in both individual and couples therapy, making her a versatile therapist committed to delivering quality care.
My Approach to Psychotherapy
My therapeutic approach is rooted in a non-pathologizing, person-centric, and eclectic framework. I believe in collaboratively tailoring interventions to suit your unique needs, drawing from various schools of psychotherapy. Central to my practice is the creation of a safe and authentic therapeutic relationship built on openness, non-judgment, compassion, mutual respect, trust, and collaboration.
Rather than focusing solely on quick solutions or advice, I aim to foster self-awareness by building insights, empowering you with tools that you can generalize and utilize for the long term. My approach is firmly grounded in trauma-informed, queer-affirmative, and culturally sensitive practices, ensuring respect for the diversity of identities and lived experiences.
I strive to provide therapy that empowers you to navigate life’s challenges more effectively. It is my privilege to be welcomed into your inner world and an honor to accompany you on this journey toward a more fulfilling life.
Vidhi Jain is an empathetic, dedicated, and motivated psychologist with a passion for providing evidence-based interventions to individuals seeking guidance. She holds a post-graduate diploma in counselling from the Maharashtra Institute of Mental Health (MIMH), Sassoon Hospital and an M.A. in Clinical psychology from Savitribai Phule Pune University. Her training and professional experience have equipped her with the ability to deliver evidence-based therapeutic interventions while specializing in psychometric assessments.
Vidhi has extensive experience conducting assessments using a wide range of tools, including the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI), Trauma Symptom Inventory (TSI), various IQ tests, SLD assessments, personality, and projective tests. Her role at Sassoon Hospital involved performing psychometric evaluations for clients across different age groups, addressing intellectual disabilities (ID), learning disabilities (LD), and a range of psychiatric conditions.
In addition to assessment, Vidhi has provided psychotherapy sessions, utilizing therapeutic modalities such as CBT, DBT, and REBT. Her work in the Psychiatry OPD, ID and LD clinics, and her collaboration with psychiatrists and social workers have enriched her holistic approach to mental health care.
Saloni Kullar is a Psychologist at Niya Mental Health Initiative, with a passion for counseling and mental well-being. She holds a master’s in psychology from Symbiosis College of Arts and Commerce, a Bachelor’s from St. Mira’s College, and a Post Graduate Certificate in Counseling Psychology from Fergusson College. With over two years of experience, Saloni has worked extensively with young adults, providing mental health support in academic, personal, and emotional areas. She has also conducted individual counseling in schools and contributed to mental health content development.
Certified in art-based therapy from IIPR, Saloni is dedicated to creative therapeutic approaches and inclusive mental health care, as demonstrated by her work with Ekansh Trust on disability awareness. She has volunteered with organizations like Maher Ashram, reflecting her commitment to community service. In her personal life, she enjoys the arts, such as playing guitar, painting, and analyzing film characters from a psychological perspective. She is fluent in English and Hindi and brings creativity and depth to her counseling practice.
Dr. Harkishan Mamtani is a distinguished Consultant Neuropsychiatrist and the Founder and Director of Manoved—Centre for Mental Well-Being and Research in Nagpur, India. With an MD in Psychiatry and a Postdoctoral Fellowship in Neuropsychiatry from NIMHANS, along with an MRCPsych from the UK, Dr. Mamtani is recognized for his international expertise in psychiatry. He has published over 25 research papers and has earned several national and international accolades. Known for his compassionate, evidence-based approach, Dr. Mamtani specializes in treating complex neuropsychiatric conditions, emphasizing holistic recovery that addresses psychological, social, and biological factors. His clinical focus includes neurological disorders, elderly psychiatric care, women’s mental health, and addiction. Through Manoved, he is dedicated to promoting mental well-being with personalized, comprehensive care.
Dr. Seema Sharma is a highly qualified and specialized professional in the field of clinical neuropsychology, holding a PhD with a focus on comorbidity among caregivers of individuals with mild head injuries. Her research likely delves into the intricate psychological and social dynamics involved in caregiving in such cases.
Prior to their doctoral studies, Dr. Seema completed an M. Phil in Medical and Social Psychology from the prestigious National Institute for Mental Health and Neuro Sciences (NIMHANS) in Bangalore, indicating a strong foundation in both medical and psychological aspects of mental health.
With a Master’s degree in Psychology, she possesses comprehensive knowledge and expertise in various facets of psychological research and clinical practice. Their academic journey suggests a deep commitment to understanding and addressing the complexities of neuropsychological conditions and their impact on individuals and caregivers alike.
Dr. Seema has operated ‘SAMADHAN- Stress and Psychotherapy Clinic’ since 1990. They conduct workshops for schools like The Doon School and provide mental health clinics at IIT Roorkee. They also train military personnel and collaborate with medical departments on integrated therapies.
She has actively engaged in numerous webinars, workshops, presentations, and seminars, contributing significantly to disseminating psychological knowledge and research findings. Also, she has authored several publications, showcasing her expertise and dedication to advancing the field of clinical psychology. Dr. Seema maintains affiliations with various esteemed organizations, fostering collaborations that enhance mental health practices and interventions. Their extensive involvement underscores a commitment to continual learning and professional development in psychology.
Radhika is a licensed Clinical Psychologist whose therapeutic approach is characterized by eclecticism. She is a gold medalist in her M.Phil. degree from Amity University, as well as an M.A. in Clinical Psychology and a B.A. (Hons) in Psychology from Symbiosis College of Arts and Commerce in Pune.
Her expertise lies in addressing a wide range of psychological concerns, including Anxiety, Mood Disorders, Substance Abuse, Family Difficulties, Body Image Concerns, Terminal Illness, and Neurodevelopmental Conditions. Radhika has accumulated over three years of experience in clinical assessment and therapy with both children and adults, gained from working in clinical and school settings.
My Approach to Psychotherapy
In my practice, I embrace the belief that every client is a unique individual, shaped by their diverse experiences and personal circumstances. With this understanding at the core of my approach, I strive to create a warm and welcoming environment where clients feel valued and understood.
I see therapy as a collaborative journey, and I am committed to working alongside my clients to address their needs and support their growth. Drawing from a range of therapeutic techniques, including Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), I tailor my approach to meet the specific goals and preferences of each individual.
By offering a diverse toolkit of therapeutic modalities, I aim to provide a comprehensive and compassionate space for exploration and healing. My goal is to empower clients to navigate life’s challenges with resilience and confidence, fostering positive change and personal growth every step of the way.
Anusha holds a Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology from Fergusson College, Pune, and a Bachelor of Arts from St. Joseph’s College, Vishakhapatnam. With a foundation laid through internships at Samyak Rehabilitation Center and Havoc Therapy, she has honed her skills in conducting case histories, facilitating intake sessions, and providing empathetic online chat counseling services.
My Approach to Psychotherapy
My perspective is rooted in psychodynamic principles, guided by the philosophy that approaching each client with the desire to understand the “why” behind their concerns, taking into account their core experiences and viewpoints is essential for providing compassionate, client-centred care. I believe that approaching each client with curiosity without assumptions or judgement is key. I aim to empower individuals with the tools to navigate through life’s challenges and achieve long-term well-being.
She is driven by a passion for continuous learning and growth, currently aspiring to pursue further learning in Clinical Psychology through an MPhil program and is dedicated to expanding her skill set through psychometric testing training at NMHI.
Dr. Manjula Veeraraghavan is a licensed clinical psychologist in private practice with an M.Phil and PhD from Nimhans. She holds more than 20 years of experience in the field of Mental health and about 12 years of experience in Marital and Family Therapy. Having done her PhD research in the area of couple sex therapy she is one of the sought-after sex therapists in the field. She is a firm believer in a social justice approach to psychotherapy especially while dealing with marginalized clientele. She holds a keen interest in the areas of Nonphysical forms of violence, Narcissistic/antagonistic relationships, and Parental alienation.
She engages herself in training budding therapists in the area of Marital and family therapy by conducting internships, webinars, and individual supervision.
Nikhil is the co-founder of NIYA Mental Health Initiative. He is a Clinical psychologist who practices queer-affirmative and trauma-informed psychotherapy. Nikhil earned his MPhil in Clinical Psychology from the National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (NIMHANS), Bangalore and Master’s in Applied Psychology with a specialization in Clinical Psychology from the Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS), Mumbai. Additionally, he holds certifications in Queer Affirmative Counselling Practice, Yoga in Mental Health, and Trauma-Informed Psychotherapy.
Nikhil has been recognized as a distinguished speaker at International Conferences on Mental Health Care through Spirituality, Ayurveda, and Alternative Therapies.
With over 9+ years of experience, he has worked with children and adults in various settings across India, including King George Medical University, Lucknow, and the Mental Health Action Trust (MHAT), an NGO based in Calicut, Kerala.
Nikhil is a registered Clinical Psychologist with the Rehabilitation Council of India (RCI, CRR No: A73918). He is also an, Associate Member of the American Psychological Association (APA) and a Lifetime Professional Member of Clinical Psychology Society of India.
My approach to Psychotherapy
I embrace an eclectic and holistic framework, valuing the unique needs of each client. Central to my practice is creating a welcoming, non-judgmental, and compassionate environment where clients feel secure discussing their concerns. Within this eclectic perspective, I integrate queer-affirmative and trauma-informed practices. My clients have found great benefit in an insight-oriented psychotherapeutic approach, enriched by theories such as Attachment theory, CBT, DBT, ACT, and Psychodynamic approaches. What sets my practice apart is the fusion of Western knowledge with Eastern systems like yoga and mindfulness, offering a comprehensive approach to healing.
I am dedicated to ongoing self-improvement and lifelong learning, regularly attending professional development trainings and obtaining certifications to provide clients with the latest evidence-based therapy practices. I eagerly anticipate the opportunity to connect with you and support you on your healing journey.
Outside of work, I enjoy indulging in long drives, watching movies, and immersing myself in the beauty of nature.
Amisha is a mental health professional in Yoga, specializing in Indian Psychology, Iyengar Yoga, Yoga Philosophy, and their collective benefits for overall well-being.
She attained her post-graduation in Yoga therapy specific to Mental Health and Neuroscience from the National Institute of Mental Health and Neuroscience (NIMHANS) Bangalore in 2023, marking her as a pioneer among professionals with this qualification in India. Additionally, she completed her undergraduate studies at Svyasa Bangalore and obtained certification as an Iyengar Yoga teacher after completing a rigorous 3-year training program.
Drawing on her extensive experience as a dedicated practitioner and certified Iyengar Yoga instructor, Amisha has gained insight into how the body, breath, and mind intertwine. Her expertise in Indian psychology and philosophy enriches her approach to holistic wellness.
My approach to Clinical Yoga Therapy
I aim to utilize Yoga philosophy principles to enhance overall health and address specific issues. With an understanding of how Yoga can aid and a background in anatomy, physiology, and mindfulness techniques, I tailor personalized practices to support physical, mental, and emotional well-being.
I firmly believe in teaching beyond mere yoga poses – I integrate traditional concepts like breathing exercises, chanting, and yogic counseling to bring about a positive change in people’s lives.
I am also passionate about blending the wisdom of Yoga philosophy with scientific knowledge, making it understandable and enjoyable for all. Whether I’m working individually or with groups, I always prioritize empathy, inclusivity, and responsiveness to each individual’s unique needs.