Relational Depth Psychotherapy for Adults

Hi, I’m Ankita (ahn-KEE-tha).

I’m a 1.5 generation Indian American cis woman, raised in the Midwest and living on unceded Ohlone land in the Bay Area for over a decade. I use she/her pronouns.

I’ve spent many years engaged in my own inner work — both in response to hardship and because it is meaningful for me. Through meditation, dance, time in nature, and ongoing reflection, I strengthen my relationship with myself. This personal cultivation grounds my work with clients, along with 15 years of clinical experience.

I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California. I received my MSW from UC Berkeley and my BA from the University of Michigan. Before opening my private practice, I worked in hospitals, schools, residential treatment centers, and foster care and adoption settings. My training includes expressive arts, mindfulness, and parts-based approaches.

Who I work with

Clients who work with me tend to be deep-feeling and introspective. They are looking for a space where their complexity is welcomed and respected, while also seeking support navigating everyday life and relationships.

I often meet with BIPOC, queer, and trans clients carrying histories of childhood trauma, bicultural conflict, assimilation, performance pressure, and chronic stress. They are processing what they have been through, how it has shaped them, and who they are becoming.

How I Work

  • Grounded

    I bring steadiness and self-regulation cultivated over many years of clinical and personal practice. This allows me to stay connected to you, to myself, and to what is happening between us.

    Together, we get curious about the present moment, noticing thoughts, feelings, and sensations as they arise.

    We may work with the body, breath, or simple grounding practices, especially when emotions feel intense, overwhelming, or difficult to access.

  • Relational

    The therapeutic relationship becomes part of the work. When tension or rupture arises, we slow down, name what feels true, and gently examine assumptions.

    Over time, clients often experience greater security in relationship. They strengthen their capacity to name their truth, tolerate discomfort, and stay engaged through moments of activation. Patterns of escalating, withdrawing, or shutting down begin to soften. Difficult emotions can be felt, understood, and attended to with care.

  • Attuned

    I approach you with curiosity and care, attuning to your pacing and incorporating feedback as we go.

    I pay close attention to shifts in your energy, tone, content, and body language, adjusting to meet you where you are. Silence and pauses are part of the work, allowing time for reflection.

    The full spectrum of your experience —including grief, frustration, unresolved hurt, and topics that may feel taboo or difficult to name — is welcome here, at your pace.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • I offer individual psychotherapy to adults (18+) via teletherapy (video or phone) who reside in California. You can join from a private, confidential space such as your home, office, or car.

    Sessions are 50 minutes and typically take place once a week. If it feels supportive, we can occasionally meet more frequently.

    I do not currently offer in-person sessions or work with clients outside of California.

  • I see clients Monday through Thursday, 9am–5pm PST. At this time, I do not offer evening or weekend sessions.

  • Sessions are $185, paid securely through Ivy Pay. I offer sliding scale rates, HSAs, and provide superbills for possible out-of-network reimbursement (common with PPO plans). I am also in-network with several insurance providers.

    As of 2022, you have the right to a “Good Faith Estimate” of costs. Learn more at www.cms.gov/nosurprises.

  • I’m oriented toward nuance, complexity, and relational depth. I value precise language and thoughtful process, while also bringing flexibility and humor to the work. My lived experience shapes how I show up as a therapist: with humility, respect, and trust in my clients’ process.

  • Working with me is collaborative and relational. We pay close attention to what’s happening in the moment, including within our relationship. With time, clients often feel supported, invited into reflection, and more confident navigating life’s ups and downs. Many find it becomes safer to be vulnerable and more of who they are.

  • In our first session, I’ll offer a brief orientation to how I work and ask about pronouns or accessibility needs. You’ll have space to share what brings you in and what you’re hoping for. Before we close, I’ll check in about how the session felt and confirm next steps.

  • Reach out through my contact form below to request a free 20-minute video or phone consultation. I’ll respond within 1–2 business days via email with a link to schedule our call. If it feels like a good fit, we’ll schedule your first session.

Reach out to request your free 20-minute consultation.

If you're interested in working together, please complete the form with a few details about yourself. I’ll respond within 1-2 business days.

Please note, I’m offline Friday through Sunday.