Dhara Ghuntla
Psychologist/Psychotherapist
Helping you channel your full potential
Hi, I am Dhara, a practising psychotherapist in Mumbai, India.
My Story
I first got interested in the science of Psychology when I initially got the chance to study it at the age of 16 years. I was hugely in awe of my teacher, her anecdotes, her understanding of individuals, and her empathy. She understood me very effortlessly, and this made me feel very secure during the teenage turmoil. That is when the idea came to me that I too would like to do this for others. I had a very specific plan to study clinical psychology right since grade 12, and I worked relentlessly for it. Now, over a decade later, I am happy I could fulfil my goals. In my experience as an educator and a clinical practitioner, I have dealt with many different age groups, disorders and needs of the clients.
I take special interest in personality disorders, marital disturbances, anxiety, and depression related disorders. I offer clients a wide range of treatment choices. Individual, couples, family and group therapy are all very effective. Most clients appreciate a combination of these treatment approaches. I am aware of the importance to deliver comprehensive eclectic treatment to all the individuals affected. This helps us deal with the multiple aspects affecting the illness. I am equipped to help clients suffering from mental health issues like depression, anxiety, relationship and sexual issues, adjustment and personality disorders, stress-related problems, parenting, educational and occupational problems among others.
My Values & Beliefs
"Our wounds are often the openings into the best and most beautiful part of us"
I agree with the quote – “Our wounds are often the openings into the best and most beautiful part of us” (David Richo, 2002). I support the humanistic, cognitive and behavioral models of psychology and believe in the importance of unconditional positive regard, empathy, patient empowerment, and support.
Science of Wellbeing
A firm believer in the Science of Wellbeing, I promote the importance of wellbeing, speak often about the unhealthy ideas that thwart wellness and ways to improve general overall happiness using the theories of positive psychology.
Self-care is essential
I believe that self-care is essential for our well being and that we need to know and understand ourselves in order to be truly happy and content. We need to take time to align ourselves, recognize how we truly think and feel, and then make life choices and willful behaviors that support our true selves. A disconnect from our own self is very harmful to our mental health. Mindfulness is a good practice to help us stay aware and in the moment.
My Approach
I regularly conduct seminars on various health and wellness topics like assertiveness training, positive psychology, parenting practices, anger management, resilience training, and mindfulness to name a few. In personal therapy, I try to incorporate, with client permission, their family members or partners if needed. I have found that new perspectives and beneficial health behaviors are often learned from peers in these group settings.
Owing to an increasing need for psychologists, I am also passionate about grooming young talent and making them future-ready. Over the years, I have been associated with various international, private and public educational institutions.
What drives me?
- A wish to promote holistic happiness and wellness, so that people are able to achieve their highest potential.
- A wish to help remit mental health disorders and spread awareness of such disorders to reduce stigma from our society.
