About Me

    The Heart Behind the Practice

    Every healing journey is unique. Mine began with a deep conviction that mental health care should be compassionate, culturally attuned, and accessible to everyone.

    My Story

    My most intimate encounter with the power of healing, of both others and oneself, came while volunteering with a Rehabilitation project post-Tsunami conducted by the Tata Institute of Social Sciences in Kerala, South India, in 2005. The Indian Ocean Tsunami had caused massive destruction of lives and property. As a first responder, I was engaged in rehabilitation, and the devastation around us was extreme. Despite language barriers, I spent my days listening to stories of loss and gathering up the outpouring of emotions, and by night, sitting by the ocean to debrief. I realized that healing occurred at a plane deeper than words and that Nature played a huge part in our ability to empathize, have compassion and release our trauma.
    I inherited a conviction in this transmission of compassion and empathy. My maternal grandma had vast knowledge in traditional medicine in the Indian village of Porbander who would walk barefoot for miles to tend to a patient. I spent my summer vacations listening to her stories and witnessing the passion for her healing work. My parents have carried forward her generosity of spirit. I knew as far back as grade 8 that I wanted to be a counselor. I began by pitching in with causes at school and moved to get my Master’s in Medical and Psychiatric Social Work from TISS. It’s been a lifelong commitment to the calling.
    I am with you for the long haul. I am a therapist who will walk the journey with you, and am equipped with skills and techniques to help you meet your therapeutic goals. My skills are an amalgamation of East and West. My approach is holistic, integrated, collaborative, mindful and spiritual.
    I have over 20 years of experience with a diverse clientele across India, the USA and Canada. I am multilingual and am comfortable in English, Hindi, Gujarati, and Marathi.
    I offer a confidential, non-judgmental environment to my clients, where they can feel safe and supported. I am skilled and certified in Psychotherapy, Counselling, Psychoeducation and Skill coaching, arts-based therapy, Healing and mindfulness-based approaches.

    My Philosophy

    Healing Is a Journey, Not a Destination

    Compassion First

    Every interaction is rooted in empathy and unconditional positive regard. You deserve a space free of judgment.

    Cultural Sensitivity

    I honour diverse backgrounds, languages, and traditions. Therapy should reflect who you are, not who you're expected to be.

    Holistic Healing

    I integrate mind, body, and spirit — drawing on evidence-based therapies alongside mindfulness and spiritual practices.

    Credentials & Training

    Education & Certifications

    Master of Social Work (MSW)

    Specialization in Psychiatric Social Work

    Licensed Clinical Social Worker

    Registered with the BC College of Social Workers

    Certified in CBT, DBT Trauma Informed Practice & other modalities

    Advanced training in evidence-based modalities

    Buddhist psychology, mindfulness based arts based therapy

    Trained in culturally diverse and inclusive practice

    My Journey

    A Path of Purpose

    2006

    Began Clinical Practice

    Started working with individuals and families in India, focusing on mental health advocacy and crisis intervention.

    2009 to 2012

    Organizational & Private Practice

    Worked with various non-profit organizations, corporate companies, and government departments on mental health counselling, rehabilitation, and helped build up policies. Continued private practice and worked with individuals, families, and groups in India.

    2012 to Present

    Counselling & Community Work

    Counselling with individuals, families, and groups, along with social work practice and community work with various cultural organizations.

    Let’s Connect

    I Speak Your Language

    English • Hindi • Gujarati • Marathi
    Whether you’re navigating a difficult transition, processing trauma, or simply seeking a more meaningful life — I’m here to walk alongside you.

    Licensed Psychiatric Social Worker

    ©2026 Dhara Shah. All Rights Reserved.