GOOD TO SEE YOU HERE!
Selves&Spaces by Kanaga Lakshmi, Seethammal Extension 1st Main Road, Kasturba Nagar, Adyar, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
Kanaga Lakshmi - Senior Clinical Psychologist
I’m Ms. Kanaga Lakshmi, a Clinical Psychologist and Psychotherapist, with years of experience helping children, adolescents, and families navigate their emotional challenges. I hold an MA in Human Resources, an MA in Applied Psychology (Clinical specialization) from TISS, and an MPhil in Clinical Psychology from IMH. I’m also a licensed professional with the Rehabilitation Council of India (RCI) and specialize in trauma-focused care. Currently, I’m deepening my approach by training in Somatic Experiencing to better support my clients’ healing journeys.
As a single mother and a caregiver for a parent with mental illness, my personal experiences have profoundly shaped how I approach mental health. I understand the importance of safety, support, and community in the healing process. This journey inspired me to create Selves and Spaces, a mental health clinic where every part of the "self" is acknowledged, embraced, and empowered. This is more than just a clinic—it's a space where people can feel seen, understood, and supported on their emotional journey.
In addition to my clinical training, I hold a Diploma in Transactional Analysis and Psychodynamic Psychotherapy. I specialize in child and adolescent psychotherapy and have had the privilege of serving as a Senior Mentor at Nishta Neurodev Centre and heading the Yaavarum project, an NGO dedicated to improving school mental health. Through these experiences, I’ve worked to create safe and nurturing environments for emotional growth, both within schools and the wider community.
My therapeutic approach is relational and systems-oriented, which means I focus on understanding the dynamics of relationships and the broader contexts in which individuals live. I work to create a space where clients can explore and heal through the connections they have with others and the systems that shape their lives. My approach is deeply rooted in both my professional training and lived experience. I believe in the power of understanding trauma and its long-term impact, and I bring that empathy into every interaction.
I also offer training for parents, teachers, and corporate groups on topics like well-being, sexual abuse prevention, and procrastination. I’m passionate about inclusivity and volunteer at the Madhuram Narayanan Centre, where I support children with special needs.
Supporting mothers during pregnancy and the post-pregnancy period is also close to my heart. I run a group specifically for expectant mothers, offering a safe space for them to share, heal, and connect. I am also the creator of Magic Manasu, a bilingual activity book for government school children of Tamilnadu that reflects my holistic approach to mental health and well-being.
Through everything I do, my mission is to build a community where mental health care is not just a service, but a shared experience that fosters healing, connection, and growth for all.
Team
Ms. Radhika - External supervisor
Ms. Smruthi Peramaiyadass - Psychotherapist
Ms. Pavithra - Senior Psychotherapist
I’m Radhika, an independently practicing Queer-affirmative psychotherapist based in Bangalore. I hold a Master’s degree in Applied Psychology with a specialization in Clinical Psychology from TISS - BALM, Chennai, and have been practicing for six years.
As a Supervisor, my goal is to create a safe and collaborative space where supervisees can reflect on their work with vulnerability and compassion. I believe in fostering an environment that encourages openness, growth, and mutual respect.
Ms. Pavithra - Senior Psychotherapist
Ms. Smruthi Peramaiyadass - Psychotherapist
Ms. Pavithra - Senior Psychotherapist
Pavithra holds a Masters in Clinical Psychology from SRIHER, and takes an eclectic approach, particularly adopting a Transactional Analysis lens and Relational approach. She aims to create a supportive, evidence-based therapeutic space where the relationship embraces exploration, recognition and acceptance of the different yet unique parts of ourselves.
Ms. Smruthi Peramaiyadass - Psychotherapist
Ms. Smruthi Peramaiyadass - Psychotherapist
Ms. Smruthi Peramaiyadass - Psychotherapist
Smruthi holds a Masters in Clinical Psychology from Christ University. She intends to take an intersectional, socially informed & trauma-sensitive stance in her practice, adopting Psychodynamic & Acceptance based approaches catering to the client’s needs relative to their current context.
Ms. Abhirami - Psychotherapist
Ms. Abhirami - Psychotherapist
Ms. Smruthi Peramaiyadass - Psychotherapist
Abhirami holds a Diploma & Masters in Counselling and Psychotherapy from Lady Doak College, and is inclined towards an eclectic therapeutic approach. She facilitates enhancing one’s relationship with self and with loved ones through healthy internalization and self reflection, while fostering emotional resilience.
Ms. Jannani - Psychotherapist
Ms. Abhirami - Psychotherapist
Ms. Jannani - Psychotherapist
Jannani holds a Masters in Clinical Psychology from SRIHER, and takes an eclectic approach. She believes therapy is unique to each person and aims to enhance the therapeutic relationship by working with the client to find the most suitable approach. She envisions providing a safe space which enables healing through a queer affirmative and trauma sensitive approach.