Nisha Sundararaj

Hi, my name is Nisha Sundararaj, and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor located in Rhode Island. I enjoy working with students and young adults who are navigating life transitions. I have experience working with students of all backgrounds, identities, and mental health goals. Many of my clients struggle with stress, burnout, relationship conflicts, confusion about life goals, and other common issues. I have worked with many international students who seek support as they get used to living in the United States, especially in high pressure environments like higher education. I am passionate about working with women who are starting to think about getting pregnant. I also have experience supporting clients pre and postnatal as they adjust to motherhood.

My approach to therapy is relational, culturally sensitive, and trauma-informed, making sure all sessions feel safe and secure to my clients, especially those with trauma backgrounds. I build strong trust with my clients and never push them to disclose information they aren’t comfortable sharing. I utilize a therapy modality called Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy. Through this therapy, clients learn how to identify irrational beliefs. Mixing in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), clients also learn how to identify negative thought patterns that lead to distress. I bring warmth and compassion to my sessions. As an immigrant and previous international student myself, I provide clients with the opportunity to ask questions about the logistics and technicalities of therapy so there’s no discomfort with the process.

I became a therapist after earning degrees in computer science and business. I know firsthand the stress that comes with identity shifts during self-growth. I strive to provide clients with a space to talk openly about their struggles, and offer an empathetic ear as I teach useful coping skills.