Rashmi Jayashankar

M.Sc. Applied psychology (Clinical)| Trauma Informed, Queer Affirmative & Neuro-affirming Therapist

15 years of work experience with first 4 with a Training organization and over a decade of working with NGOs, Start-ups, Hospitals

Online Therapy Services for Adults | Bangalore

Meet Rashmi

“Owning our story can be hard but not nearly as difficult as spending our lives running from it. Embracing our vulnerabilities is risky but not nearly as dangerous as giving up on love and belonging and joy—the experiences that make us the most vulnerable. Only when we are brave enough to explore the darkness will we discover the infinite power of our light.” ― Brene Brown

I've realized over the last ten years of working as a therapist how much lifelong learning and growth of both my personal and professional lives are inextricably interwoven. As someone who has gone through the experience of living in a world where the society dictates what is 'normal' and 'ideal', I relate to the deep struggle to feel assured, express authentically and live with peace amid confusion and hurt. I've seen that the most common source of sorrow for many of us is being told that our emotions are unjustified. The energy spent on bottling up emotions or criticizing ourselves takes a toll on our well-being. Through my work, I've seen the power of compassionate holding and acceptance. These lead to authentic expression, inside and out. I’ve learned that embracing our vulnerabilities allows us to see human emotions as valid and use them as guiding lights to our true selves. Understanding that reactions and beliefs can be unlearned has been a cornerstone of my practice. This acceptance transforms the way we experience life, moving from seeking perfection to trusting the wholeness and richness of life itself.


I firmly believe that the process of self-acceptance and discovery has transformative potential. As we move through life, we frequently have a burdensome feeling that results from the layers that do not truly represent who we are. We flourish as we let go of things that were never truly yours, remove the layers that hide your own self, and in rewriting stories that no longer make sense. I believe that every individual has the innate wisdom within them to create a life they love. This journey is about more than just change; it’s about evolving organically, belonging authentically, and living with presence and intentionality.

Framework and Lens

My approach is rooted in psychodynamic and humanistic traditions, viewed through an intersectional-feminist lens. I collaborate with clients to foster holistic growth, considering biological, psychological, and social dimensions. My practice integrates compassion and mindfulness, incorporating Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, narrative and systemic therapy, as well as somatic work. I am committed to providing queer-affirmative, neuro-affirmative, and trauma-informed care, working with individuals and couples.

Journeying Together

"It must happen to us all...We pack up what we've learned so far and leave the familiar behind. No fun, that shearing separation, but somewhere within, we must dimly know that saying goodbye to safety brings the only security we'll ever know." ― Richard Bach

In our sessions, I show up with gentleness, humor, and a deep sense of curiosity. I bring all parts of my existence to witness and accompany you in your journey. My approach is non-pathologizing; I see what is often labeled as symptoms through a medical lens, as natural responses to life’s experiences. I hold a space where you can safely explore your emotions, thoughts, and behaviors without judgment. Understanding your beliefs, seeing your thoughts and feelings clearly, and making decisions you can trust are all part of my mission. I embrace the dynamic diversity and uniqueness of each individual within the shared humanity that binds us all. I accept that I do not know it all and have all the answers you are looking for, but I will explore directions and possibilities that can take you to them. I want you to know that this is partnership where the knowledge of your life and expertise of my subject, we bring the common humanity to amalgamate everything together.


Clients often describe their experience with me as one of deep compassion and understanding. They feel safe to express their vulnerabilities and discover the validity of their human emotions. In this space, they learn to use their emotions as a guide to their true selves, recognizing and valuing their unique desires and truths. Clients find clarity in distinguishing between automatic responses rooted in the past and their authentic experiences in the present. This intentionality in our work together helps them create a life filled with meaning and presence, where they can trust their decisions and embrace the richness of life. They experience a shift from fearfully fitting in to authentically belonging, and from frantic attempts at change to organic, meaningful evolution.

You are welcome into each session with all aspects of your unique identity.

This is going to be a collaborative space that evolves according to the needs of the client. I aim to be with you and listen to you, with curiosity to your experience and inner knowing. We will explore your values, motivations, acknowledge and celebrate your abilities, open up possibilities and options, so that you can make choices towards the life you want to live. We work away from fear based surviving to security based living.

WORK TOGETHER

FAQs

WHAT CAN I EXPECT FROM YOUR ONLINE THERAPY SPACE?

Sessions are typically 60 minutes, Though you can request for a longer session. These sessions are structured as conversations focused on your needs. In the initial few sessions, we’ll take the time to understand your concerns and help you get a sense of comfort with me. This period is also an opportunity to determine if our therapeutic relationship is a good fit for you. As we move forward, we’ll set goals and work on them together during our sessions. We’ll also explore different approaches that you can practice and apply in your daily life. Please note, I do not prescribe medication, nor am I a crisis support provider. Therapy is not about giving advice, but rather about exploring perspectives and building opportunities for growth and change.

HOW OFTEN DO I HAVE TO COME AND HOW LONG DOES IT LAST?

In the first three months, it's important for clients to attend weekly sessions to build momentum and lay the foundation for their therapy journey. The duration of the therapeutic alliance varies based on your goals, circumstances, and the depth of work needed.

HOW & WHEN DO I PAY FOR THE SESSIONS AND WHAT IS THE CANCELLATION POLICY?

Payments are made 72 hours in advance or while booking the session through the help desk. In case a rescheduling or cancellation is needed, a 24 hours notice of cancellation is required or you will need to pay for the appointment. An occasional exception may be made in the case of an emergency. It’s important that we meet consistently in order to make progress.

WHEN CAN WE HAVE THE SESSIONS?

Therapy appointments can be booked from Monday to Friday based on availability. You can book a few session in advance according to your budget and schedule to ensure continuity.

DOES WHAT WE SPEAK REMAIN CONFIDENTIAL?

Therapists understand that for clients to feel safe and comfortable to open up within a session, they need to know their information is safe. Therapists are ethically bound key part of psychology’s code of ethics, to keep all conversations confidential and protect your privacy. However, confidentiality does not apply if the client poses a danger to themselves or others, therapist suspects abuse of child, elderly or otherwise dependent adult and if legally forced by court order.

CAN I SEE A DIFFERENT THERAPIST OR MULTIPLE THERAPISTS?

Absolutely, you can switch therapists whenever you feel it's necessary. It's a good idea to talk with your current therapist about any concerns or if you'd like to try a different approach. Sometimes, therapy involves working with multiple professionals—like having both an individual therapist and a couples therapist, or incorporating somatic work, art therapy, or support groups. In these cases, it's really helpful to keep everyone in the loop about the other therapists you're seeing, so they can work together to support you better.

WHAT IF I DON'T WANT TO TALK ABOUT SOMETHING?

That’s totally fine. In therapy, you’re in the driver’s seat when it comes to what you share. If there’s something you’re not ready to talk about, just let me know, and I’ll respect that. The goal is for you to feel safe and comfortable. Sometimes, as we build trust, you might feel more ready to open up about certain things, but it’s all at your own pace.

WILL YOU GET TIRED OF HEARING ME TALK ABOUT THE SAME THINGS REPEATEDLY?

Not at all. My role as your therapist is to support you, no matter how many times you need to talk about something. Repeating certain topics can be a crucial part of processing and understanding them. I'm here to listen and help you work through whatever is on your mind, for as long as it takes.

Bhawa

Wholeness and transformation through expression.

© 2024 Bhawa

Contact

helpdesk@bhawa.in

Bangalore, India

Powered by Tealfeed