Therapy in Pasadena & Los Angeles, CA
Specializing in Depression, Anxiety, Relationships, LGBTQ+, South Asian/Asians & CRPS Pain Managment
You Deserve To Feel Safe & Supported
You have always danced to the tune of your own music. People around you gravitate towards your charm and uniqueness. But, although it’s common for others to rely on you for support, you hold back your own worries for fear of burdening others. The extra work you put in to hide your internal conflicts & troubles, has been stressful and depressing-especially in recent years.
Yet, no matter what hurdles come your way, you managed to tolerate your own feelings, all the while keeping your worries to yourself. You pushed yourself and were likely successful at school and work. Perhaps it was the one place that made you feel good about yourself. But even with your all your success you were left feeling empty and unhappy.
Therapy Where You Are Held
I know far too well the struggles that many cultural minorities feel in navigating their emotional and psychological life in the States. The current political climate is only adding to your worries and fears. I will hold space and help you understand the deeper impact that microaggressions and other negative events have on your life.
Stop hiding parts of yourself
Together we will process your experiences, develop new ways of managing your world that are unique to your personality and life, and work towards equalizing some of these societal injustices by building your internal psychological strength or your ‘Mental Wealth.’ I will work with you to meet your Individual Needs instead of boxing you win with a diagnosis. My stance is openminded, non-judgmental all the while using a multicultural lens to help you understand yourself authentically and have a deeper connection to yourself. Lastly you will have deeper emotional insight (those a-ha moments!) into yourself, as I tailoring your treatment to your unique therapy needs, while also incorporating scientific evidenced-based practices.
You deserve unconditional love and acceptance!
Whether you were born a certain way or whether negative life experiences changed you, you do not have to live in the shadow of your past or remain boxed-in, closeted, for fear of alienating others; but just hearing that from friends or family is not going to help. Stop struggling for acceptance and finally be seen& heard, not just for what you represent to others. Call me NOW for a FREE 20 min consultation or you can schedule your consult right away by clicking here, to see how I can help you.
Psychologist California
Hello! I’m Dr. Darshana (she/her) & I am want you to know there is hope. I believe everyone deserves to live a happy, fulfilled life with a sense of purpose. With my guidance you will be able to identify and meet your emotional needs and reach deeper levels of insight into yourself,
Being a woman of color with a South Asian background, I know how difficult it can be to overcome the hierarchy that is entrenched in our social systems. I do not assume that each cultural minority’s experiences are the same because they belong to a certain class. Nor do I assume to know exactly what it’s like to have gone through life being you. Together, we will tackle deeper issues that impact your self-esteem, shame/guilt over things that you had no control over in your life but were held responsible for and myriad of other specific issues that cultural minorities have to deal with in this country. Most importantly, I want you to know that you are not alone. That I am here to listen, in a supportive non-judgmental space and that I am not here to tell you how you ‘should’ be leading your life. Unlike other therapies, I’m interested in your experiences and how they have impacted you on a deeper level. How certain developmental points may have you stuck in the past or constantly worried about the future. We will work collaboratively to further develop your strengths and change aspects of your life that you are unhappy with or are getting in the way of your happiness and success.
I have 26 years of experience working both in California and in New York, with clients and couples’ utilizing a multicultural, psychodynamic and relational perspective to help clients live the life of their dreams. Most people feel depressed or anxious in response to life stressors at some point, but usually have the emotional support they need to overcome life’s ups and downs. I believe that no one should go through difficult experiences in their lives feeling alone, stressed, overwhelmed and feeling out of control. I take a deep interest in my client’s journey and help guide them to accept what they can’t change, change what they can & to live by the values they hold deep. Click the button below to learn how you can live the life you want starting now! What do you have to lose? If you don’t try, then you will continue to just survive. Let me be your wings so that you can soar to heights you never thought possible.
Therapy in Pasadena, CA – Frequently Asked Questions
If you’re considering therapy, it’s normal to have questions—about cost, insurance, boundaries, and what to expect. Below are answers to some of the most common questions I receive as a psychologist in Pasadena, CA.
How much does a therapy session cost in California?
Most therapy sessions in California range from $100–$300 per session, depending on the therapist’s training, specialization, and location.
In Pasadena and the greater Los Angeles area, fees often reflect the depth of experience a therapist brings—whether that includes trauma work, couples therapy, or culturally attuned care.
I’m also direct about this: therapy is an investment. You’re not just paying for time—you’re investing in understanding your patterns, improving your relationships, and creating meaningful change.
At the same time, it has to be sustainable. I’m happy to talk through fees, insurance options, or out-of-network reimbursement so we can find something that supports consistency in your care.
Does insurance cover therapy in California?
Yes—most insurance plans include mental health benefits.
Under the Affordable Care Act (ACA), therapy is considered an essential health benefit. That said, coverage varies widely depending on your specific plan.
You may still be responsible for copays, deductibles, or coinsurance. Coverage can also differ based on whether your therapist is in-network or out-of-network.
Insurance can make therapy more accessible, but it can also shape the structure of treatment. Some plans require a diagnosis or limit sessions.
In my practice, I can help you understand your options, including out-of-network benefits and superbills, so you can make an informed decision.
What are red flags to watch for in a therapist?
Therapy should feel safe, respectful, and grounded. Some clear red flags include:
Boundary violations (socializing, inappropriate touch, or blurred roles)
Breaking confidentiality
Excessive self-disclosure that shifts focus away from you
Judgment, shaming, or subtle invalidation
Pushing personal, political, or religious beliefs
Lack of presence, direction, or consistency
I also want to name something important: not all discomfort in therapy is a red flag. Good therapy can feel challenging—but even then, you should feel respected and able to talk openly about what’s happening.
What are green flags in a therapist?
There are also clear signs that you’re in the right therapeutic space:
You feel emotionally safe—but not stuck
Your therapist is consistent and maintains clear boundaries
They are present, engaged, and thoughtful
They can hold complexity without oversimplifying your experience
They welcome feedback, even when it’s uncomfortable
You begin to notice patterns and deeper self-understanding over time
The right therapist doesn’t feel perfect—but the relationship feels honest, workable, and meaningful.
Can a therapist date a former client?
No—this is considered unethical.
According to professional guidelines, therapists are prohibited from entering into sexual or romantic relationships with former clients for at least two years after therapy ends. In reality, many therapists view this as inappropriate even beyond that timeframe.
Therapy involves a real power difference. Over time, your therapist comes to understand your vulnerabilities, emotional patterns, and inner world. Because of that, maintaining clear boundaries is essential to protect you and the integrity of the work.
If feelings like attraction or attachment arise, they are not wrong—but they belong inside the therapy, where they can be explored safely.
Ready to Start Therapy in Pasadena, CA?
I offer in-person therapy in Pasadena and virtual therapy throughout California, specializing in trauma, relationships, and insight-oriented work that is both direct and deeply attuned.