Interview: Aishwarya Kumar, Psychologist at Mind first by Aishwarya

An interview with Aishwarya Kumar, Psychologist at Mind first by Aishwarya

In our insightful interview with Aishwarya Kumar, a distinguished psychologist at Mind First by Aishwarya, we delved into her innovative approaches to mental health care.

Her expertise in integrating therapeutic techniques with contemporary psychological practices offers a fresh perspective on emotional well-being and personal growth.

Can you share your journey into the field of psychology? What motivated you to become a psychologist? And what led you to establish Mind First by Aishwarya?

Aishwarya Kumar: My journey with psychology started way back when I was in school and I took psychology as one of the subjects in class 11^th. It was an interesting class and I would make sure to never miss it.

My teacher would explain to us with examples which would give me a greater insight to the field of psychology.  Once I completed my schooling I was sure that this field will be the right one for me. Not only because it was interesting to read but I could certainly imagine myself doing therapy and counselling.

When people hear about Psychology subject they would always ask “Can you read our mind?”. And to be honest this question is asked till date.

After completing my bachelors in applied psychology(honors) I continued to study further and completed my Masters in clinical psychology. University made me understand psychology theoretically and practically.

So along with written exams, we were asked to do internships. Internships indeed showed me the real picture of the field. It also helped me come in terms with the perception people have for the field of psychology and the stigma around it.

What is your therapeutic approach or philosophy? How do you tailor your methods to fit the individual needs of your clients?

Aishwarya Kumar: I follow a holistic approach in my therapy. I make sure the client reaches their maximum wellness. All clients have dynamic though processes and perceptions. Sticking to one specific approach is difficult and might not bring adequate results.

For most disorders like anxiety, depression, OCD etc I use cognitive behavioural therapy. It’s a very specific therapy which helps us in targeting unhealthy and unwanted thoughts and replace them with more rational thoughts that are healthy for Clients mental wellbeing.

Talking about children we use approaches that are suitable for them in terms of their symptoms. It mostly involves behavioural activities and trainings of daily living.  

In your practice, what are some of the most common mental health issues you encounter? How do you address these challenges with your clients 

Aishwarya Kumar: In recent times especially after covid we have witnessed the increase of anxiety , depression, obsessive compulsive disorders, substance addiction, gaming and screen addiction etc. along with these disorders a lot of lifestyle related issues, relationship problems, marital discords has seen a tremendous increase.

As a professional my duty is to first understand the root cause of the concern they bring to me. Assess them clinically in all aspects. To be able to help them navigate their concerns and identify better solutions

How do you ensure that your therapeutic practices are culturally sensitive, particularly in a diverse city like Delhi?

Aishwarya Kumar: India is diverse country and all cultures hold equal importance in my practice. Delhi being the state has people coming from all over the country. The way to handle them is through equality. Psychology as field has an ethical body that ensures fair and equal treatment for all. 

When we deal with diverse population we ensure to recognize, understand and react according to the culture they belong to. So even the way we communicate with them matters. Language barriers shall be kept in mind.

Like its not justified to use a language the client is unaware about. I also take some time to ask questions regarding their cultures to have a better understand Ing of their perceptions and thought processes.

Since culture builds our belief system and norms. Since therapeutic training helps us in learning to not be biased, its actually enjoyable to work with diversity and gain more knowledge.

How do you believe mental health awareness has evolved in India over the years? What more needs to be done to improve mental health literacy and reduce stigma?

Aishwarya Kumar: Mental health has evolved in India. I wont say that its higher in number but after Covid slight awareness is observed.

There is a long way for psychology field to gain its sense of belonging in india. People still prefer to go to temples and tantriks for treatment rather than a psychologist or psychiatrist. Physical symptoms or illnesses are given special attention while mental health is ignored to a greater extent.

India has higher suicide rate which is a symptom of depression yet people chose to see why he committed suicide like because of money issue, family conflicts etc.

But no one talks about depression and other clinical disorders that are actually the reason and cause of the death or suicide.We have a long way to go to remove stigma and create awareness for mental health .

Some of the ways to create awareness is through conducting camps all over the country where professionals talk about basics of mental health and its importance.

Schools should add psychology as a subject in early years of education that only talks about mental health and its importance specifically.

Media is a great way to reach out to people in large numbers. So we can start making more shows and songs etc and through entertainment we can bring awareness as well. 

For individuals who are considering therapy but are unsure if it’s right for them, what advice would you give? How can someone determine if they need professional help?

Aishwarya Kumar: Well this question is commonly asked that if therapy is right for me or not. The answer is that therapy is for all. The first step is to understand here is that we have to start learning to express our feelings. And therapy is a natural process, it is built for the person and it is supportive in all aspects.

Confidentiality is maintained and all other ethics are followed as well to ensure safety of the clients. To people who are not sure if they should take it or not to them I would just say that try few sessions and see for yourself.

Don’t be in a rush to jump into a conclusion that its not helpful. Talking about our feelings heal a person.

In cases where behaviors are unmanageable and unsafe for the family and for the client as well then treatment and rehabilitation is necessary. Say for instance people with addictions ,violent behaviors , psychosis, bipolarity etc need intensive care and treatment.

When it comes to other disorders and conditions that cause discomfort to day to day living they should also without a doubt take help. Otherwise also we human beings require safety in communication that a therapist is able to provide. 

Talk and talk and talk. Just come forward and talk about whats on your mind.  

Aishwarya Kumar’s thoughtful insights and commitment to enhancing mental health underscore the transformative potential of modern psychology. Her dedication not only enriches her clients’ lives but also sets a new standard in the field.

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