Veena Nair - I Attend Therapy, Understanding That Taking Care of Myself Is Essential to Being Effective (Founder Evergro)

The best work comes from a place of humility and a genuine desire to understand both yourself and your clients

1. Could you share your background and journey with us?

I have been part of the mental health field for over 8 years, with a focus on clinical psychology. My journey began with a Master's degree and an MPhil, where I gained advanced clinical skills and hands-on experience. Four years ago, I founded Evergro, a private practice dedicated to providing high-quality mental health care.

Evergro was started to bridge the mental health care gap and ensure quality services are accessible to everyone. Recently, we have expanded to include more therapists, allowing us to offer a wider range of therapeutic services. Some of these therapists are under my supervision, which gives me the opportunity to mentor and support their growth.

In my practice, I focus on adult psychotherapy, helping clients navigate personal challenges and improve their well-being. I also provide parental guidance and supervise other therapists to maintain high standards of care.

Evergro's ideology is rooted in being queer affirmative, trauma-informed, feminist, intersectional, strength-based, and inclusive. We strive to provide therapy that respects and acknowledges the diverse experiences of our clients, ensuring they feel supported and understood.

In addition to my work at Evergro, I am an advocate for mental health and use social media to share informational content. My goal is to raise awareness, reduce stigma, and provide valuable resources to a broader audience.

My journey in the mental health field has been both challenging and rewarding. Seeing the positive impact on our clients’ lives is incredibly fulfilling, and I remain committed to professional development and expanding Evergro’s reach to offer the best possible care.

2. What are your thoughts on the integration of technology in therapy?

The integration of technology in therapy has significantly broadened the scope of the field. Online therapy, in particular, has allowed me to work with individuals from all over, breaking down geographical barriers and increasing accessibility to mental health care.

The shift towards digital platforms became especially prominent during COVID-19. While adapting to this change took some time, it ultimately helped bring people closer to understanding and addressing their mental health needs. Technology has made it easier to reach clients through various mediums, offering greater flexibility and convenience. This shift has not only expanded the reach of mental health services but has also fostered a greater recognition of the importance of mental well-being in our lives.

3. What do you find most rewarding about your work as a clinical psychologist?

The most rewarding aspect of my work as a clinical psychologist is witnessing the positive transformation in my clients' lives. Seeing individuals overcome their challenges, gain insight, and achieve their personal goals is incredibly fulfilling.

I find it deeply gratifying to support clients as they navigate their struggles and grow toward a healthier and more fulfilling life. Knowing that my work makes a meaningful difference in their mental well-being and overall quality of life is a powerful motivator for me. Additionally, being able to mentor and guide other therapists through supervision adds another layer of satisfaction, as it contributes to the growth and development of the field as a whole.

4. How do you stay motivated and avoid burnout in a profession that demands a high level of emotional investment?

To stay motivated and avoid burnout in a profession that requires a high level of emotional investment, I prioritize my own mental well-being. I regularly attend therapy, understanding that taking care of myself is essential to being effective for my clients.

Additionally, I engage in regular supervision to reassess my work and ensure that I am providing the best care possible. Participating in routine training and upskilling also helps me stay current with the evolving demands and changes in the field. By maintaining these practices, I can manage the emotional demands of the job and continue to offer high-quality support to my clients.

5. What advice would you give to someone considering a career in clinical psychology?

For anyone considering a career in clinical psychology, I would advise embracing the field's challenges and opportunities with dedication and empathy. It's crucial to be perceptive, truly listen to clients, and approach each interaction with compassion.

Equally important is the need to commit to ongoing learning and professional development to stay current with the field's evolving practices and insights. The best work comes from a place of humility and a genuine desire to understand both yourself and your clients.

Additionally, moving away from hierarchical attitudes and fostering an integrated approach by collaborating with other professionals in the field can lead to more comprehensive and effective care. Working together and respecting diverse perspectives enriches the therapeutic process and benefits both clients and practitioners.

6. What is a book you love and would recommend our readers to give it a try?

One book I highly recommend is The Gift of Therapy by Irvin D. Yalom. It offers valuable insights into the therapeutic process and the relationship between therapist and client. Yalom's reflections and practical advice are both profound and accessible, making it a great read for anyone interested in understanding the nuances of therapy and personal growth.

Bio:

I am a Clinical Psychologist with over eight years of experience and an M.Phil in Clinical Psychology, registered with the Rehabilitation Council of India (RCI). My practice includes working with individuals, couples, and families, and I also offer consultancy services to various organizations.

I specialize in depression, anxiety, OCD, grief counseling, and parental guidance, and conduct sessions in English, Hindi, and Malayalam via video, audio, and chat.

My therapeutic approach emphasizes creating a safe and supportive environment, with a strength-based and trauma-informed perspective. I am committed to inclusivity and continuous professional growth through supervision and training to provide the best support for my clients

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Interviewed & Edited by- Arunangshu Chatterjee

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