My name is Aarti Khambhaita and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Orange County, California, and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I am of South Asian (Indian, Desi) descent and a first-generation college graduate. A little bit about my journey to becoming a therapist started with my own mental health journey and finding a therapist who understood the South Asian culture and how it contradicted the American culture. I was always described as a “helper” and always felt a sense of fulfillment when helping others. Becoming a therapist for me was a way to make a positive impact on individuals and communities as well as empower them to know it is OKAY to be NOT OKAY.
What you can expect from our first session together is for us to spend the majority of our time talking about how you’ve been feeling recently, and me asking questions to better understand some of why you may be feeling that way. The first session is about us building an initial connection and helping me get a sense of where we should go from there. Each individual is different, and I like to listen first before assuming I know what will work best for you moving forward. We discuss your expectations of the therapeutic process and what you hope to take away from your sessions.
I would say my greatest strengths as a provider are my empathy, strong communication skills, and ability to work collaboratively with diverse populations. I have a deep understanding of the challenges that individuals face, and my empathy allows me to build trust with clients, making them feel heard and supported. Communication is another strength of mine; I can effectively communicate with clients, colleagues, and external agencies, ensuring everyone is on the same page. Finally, my ability to collaborate with multidisciplinary teams has been crucial in providing comprehensive care, ensuring clients receive the resources and support they need. These strengths help me advocate for clients and create positive outcomes in their lives.
I have used CBT-SP with clients who have history of suicidal attempts, self-injurious behavior, or struggling with severe mental illness such as borderline personality disorder, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, and Major Depressive Disorder. I have used CBT-SP when helping clients identify and challenge negative thought patterns. By helping the client to reframe distorted thinking that can contribute to feelings of hopelessness and despair.
I have used CBT with my clients to help them recognize and change negative thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to emotional distress they are experiencing. Using the core principles of CBT, such as identifying cognitive distortions (e.g., all-or-nothing thinking, catastrophizing) and encouraging clients to reframe these thoughts into more balanced, realistic perspectives.
I have used culturally sensitive therapy when working with clients who are first generation immigrants. This has helped build rapport with the client and also helped me as the SW to better understand the client and the role their culture plays in their presenting problem.
DBT is an excellent modality for clients who struggle with intense emotions, self-destructive behaviors, and difficulties in relationships. Using a combination of cognitive-behavioral strategies with mindfulness techniques, I help the client focus on the balance between acceptance and change.
7 years of experience Exploring with the client how their presenting problem is related to their upbringing and life events.