Greetings, I am Lavanya Rajesh. I began with focusing on fostering mental well-being by making it accessible and affordable to students; helping people to be self-aware to begin the journey toward mental well-being. I combine  Humanism, and Existentialism philosophy with Cognitive-Behavioral, Neuro-Cognitive, and Expressive Art therapeutic techniques.

However, I am directed towards practicing based on Buddhist philosophy and mind training and helping people come off dependency on medication, cultivate compassionate parenting, and work towards self-actualization. 

My professional background includes working in medical college hospitals and child development centers, where I have honed my skills in clinical assessments, therapy, and research work, and, my expertise includes lessons from experiential learnings by practicing meditation and mind training,  evidence-based therapeutic modalities, specifically in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), behavior analysis, and Motivational Interviewing. These approaches allow me to assist individuals in navigating challenges by facilitating positive cognitive and behavioral changes.

Education

  • M.Sc., Psychology Counselling

  • M.Sc., General Psychology

  • Diploma in Art Therapy

  • Certificate Course in Cognitive Behavior Therapy

  • Buddhist Philosophy and Nature of the Mind Studies - Buddhist Values, Ethics and Morality, Meditation, Mind Training

Skills

  • Mindfulness Training (Zen)

  • Meditation (Shamatha)

  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

  • Neurocognitive Training

  • Exposure and Response Prevention Therapy (ERPT)

  • Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)

  • Motivational Interviewing (MI)

  • Projective Techniques (Psychoanalysis)

  • Art Therapy

This project focused on addressing the unique needs and learning styles of neurodivergent children within the field of neurodiversity. Employing evidence-based strategies like differentiated instruction, sensory supports, and assistive technologies, the aim is to enhance both academic and social development. This research delves into current literature, empirical studies, and professional perspectives, emphasizing the crucial role of counseling psychologists. It advocates for their involvement in educating and supporting parents of neurodiverse children, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration for comprehensive support, and pushing for systemic changes within the existing framework.

Behavior Analysis

Surveyed to explore the impact of behavior analysis interventions on the behavior and development of children with autism to understand effective strategies for supporting children with autism and their families.

Mainly focused on the limitations associated with Behavior Analysis such as:

  • Limited Emphasis on Cognitive Processes: BA primarily focuses on observable behaviors and may not directly address internal cognitive processes.

  • Generalization Challenges: Achieving generalization of learned behaviors across different settings and situations can be challenging.

  • Potential for Overemphasis on External Factors: The exclusive focus on observable behaviors may overlook the role of internal factors or individual differences.

  • Ethical Considerations: BA interventions, particularly in the context of punishment, raise ethical concerns related to privacy and individual autonomy.

  • Stigmatization: The focus on modifying behavior can unintentionally lead to the stigmatization of individuals.

  • Application Complexity: Implementing BA interventions requires skill and training, and the complexity may limit widespread adoption.

  • Possible Lack of Individualization: BA may take a one-size-fits-all approach, not addressing the unique needs of every individual.

  • Limited Exploration of Emotional and Social Factors: BA may not delve deeply into emotional and social factors that influence behavior.

Motivational Interviewing

Implemented motivational interviewing techniques in substance abuse treatment settings, to help individuals explore and resolve their ambivalence toward change. These techniques have been instrumental in facilitating positive behavior change and promoting long-term recovery in rural Karnataka. It was observed that motivation was derived from one's desire to have better family relationships and improve financial conditions. Men with young children were more likely to adhere to treatment.

Neurodiversity

Research Interests

  • "Emerging Frontiers in Neurodiversity: Unveiling Challenges and the Role of Counseling Psychologists" - National Annual Conference - CPSICON-2023 of Clinical Psychology Society of India; Dept. of Clinical Psychology, NIMHANS, Bengaluru. Issued Aug 2023Issued Aug 2023.

  • "Understanding the Positive Traits of Indian Mothers: Implications for Holistic Parenting" - National Seminar on Positive Psychology for Holistic Health - National Seminar on Positive Psychology for Holistic Health. Christ University, BangaloreChrist University, Bangalore. Issued Jul 2023Issued Jul 2023

  • "Understanding the Association Between Social Desirability, Trait-Seriousness, and Trait-Cheerfulness in Indian Mothers" - Published in International Journal For Multidisciplinary Research, Volume 5, Issue 5, September-October 2023, DOI:https://doi.org/gsv6j3

Research Work