Today we’d like to introduce you to Karishma Patel.
Hi Karishma, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
Many therapists decide to pursue their careers through personal experiences or exposure to psychology. Some discover their passion for helping others, some use their struggles with mental health, and others are drawn to the field through their desire to understand the human mind and behavior. For me, I knew that I had enjoyed learning about people and their worldviews since I was a young girl. Growing up, my parents had a family business where I would spend most of my days after school. I would talk to all the customers, trying to learn everything about each of them. However, I never would have thought I wanted to be a therapist– I did not even know what a therapist was at this age.
The idea of me becoming a therapist did not start until college when I realized I wanted to pursue a career in psychology. Growing up in a South Asian household, I knew that being in the medical field was praised, and I decided I wanted to be a psychiatrist. A year later, that dream shifted, and I thought maybe I’d want to pursue a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology and eventually become a psychologist. It was not until I did an internship the summer after graduating undergrad at a private practice that I knew, wholeheartedly, that being a marriage and family therapist was exactly what I wanted to do. Recognizing the stigma surrounding mental health in the South Asian community only made me want to become a therapist more. I wanted to increase the South Asian representation in the field and make those seeking services feel seen and heard. Before going to Pepperdine University for my M.A. in Clinical Psychology with an Emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy, I started an Instagram platform (@letstalkdesitherapy) to spread awareness about South Asian mental health and share resources with this population.
Today, I am an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist (133951), working virtually with young adults and couples across California under the supervision of Priya Parikh (PSY29128). Becoming a therapist has given me so much more than just a career. It’s given me a voice to advocate for others, spread mental health awareness, and have the freedom and flexibility for my ideal work/life balance.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
When deciding to pursue a career, I do not think anyone experiences a truly “smooth road.” There are always going to be challenges, and the way the challenges are handled helps shape the outcome. Starting graduate school during the pandemic and seeing clients virtually was a learning curve for everyone. We were starting to learn what this would mean for the future of therapy– no longer did therapists need an office space, and no longer did clients need only to find a therapist within a few miles of them. However, one of the biggest challenges I have experienced is navigating the stigma mental health has in the South Asian community. Not only did this stigma exist in my community, but also in my household. I had to educate my parents/family on what therapy was, what a therapist does, and what “problems” therapy can help with. While those challenges have passed and have helped shape me into the therapist and person I am today, I know that there are many more roadblocks ahead. And while some days may lead me feeling defeated and uncertain, I know I will continue to have more days feeling grateful for having the opportunity to be a “safe space” for individuals and couples.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
As I mentioned before, I am currently an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist providing telehealth services to individuals and couples located in California. Through my education/trainings and experiences, I found I am passionate about working with young adults, couples, and South Asian individuals. I specialize in depression, anxiety, academic/occupational stress, relationship issues, life transitions, and personal growth. Areas of focus with couples are communication, conflict resolution, intimacy, friendship, and trust.
I value utilizing a holistic approach to treatment tailored to you. I aim to provide a warm, safe environment and therapeutic relationship fostering trust, respect, and growth. Through collaboration, curiosity, and compassion, I can help and support you in achieving your goal of well-being and work towards strengthening your relationship. My goal as your therapist is to help you explore your feelings, thoughts, and behaviors while giving you the skills and tools that can help you overcome your challenges.
Where we are in life is often partly because of others. Who/what else deserves credit for how your story turned out?
Several individuals have acted as mentors and supporters that have helped me get to where I am today. At Pepperdine University, I had the privilege to learn from some of the best therapists and professors. Tanya Gill is a South Asian therapist and professor who strengthen my belief that there needs to be more South Asian representation in the mental health field. She was always transparent, encouraging, and supportive of all of her students. Dr. Kathleen Eldridge’s enthusiasm and love for working with couples inspired me to start working with couples, helping me find my passion and specialty. She was always willing to take time out of her day to help guide me and encourage me in my work with couples as I started off. Pepperdine has also provided me with a strong cohort that I know will always be a significant support system — both professionally and personally. My current supervisor, Dr. Priya Parikh has also been one of my primary mentors. She is always willing to help support and cheer me on as a “new” therapist. Finally, none of this would have been possible without the support from my friends and family.
Pricing:
- Individual Sessions: $150
- Couple Sessions: $165
Contact Info:
- Website: karishmapatelamft.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/karishmapatelamft/
