Meet Asian Australian Clinical Psychologist, Dr. Suraj Samtani

We know that it's not always easy trying to work out which therapist we might like to work with: Because the decision isn't just about where they're located and when they're available, but there's a bit more of a human, relational element to the decision too.

So here at Shapes and Sounds, we want to help make that process just a little easier.

Every month, we'll be introducing a therapist from the Asian Australian Mental Health Practitioner List to help you gain a bit more insight into who you feel might be a good fit for you or someone that you know.

This month we're excited to connect you with Dr. Suraj Samtani who is a Clinical Psychologist offering services in Norwest, NSW and Telehealth Australia wide. We hope you enjoy connecting with Suraj below!

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1. What led you to choosing mental health as a career?

In our culture, it is taboo to discuss mental health conditions. Growing up, I saw people in the community suffering because they had no one to talk to about their experiences. I wanted to help people and spread the message that we need to look after our mental health.

2. What is your unique cultural heritage?

My unique identity is best pictured as a home with many rooms- each with its own cultural background. I'm from a Sindhi family. My family moved from Sindh to Mumbai as refugees after the partition. I was born in Mumbai and did primary school there. I then did high school in New Zealand, and my undergrad and postgrad degrees in Sydney. Having moved a few times, I can offer genuine support for people who have difficulty moving to another place and are trying to bridge different cultures.

3. What are your areas of specialty and what kind of frameworks do you work from?

My areas of specialty are depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, autism, OCD and PTSD. I work with children, adults and older adults. I also help people with dementia or people with chronic health conditions. I use mostly Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, Schema Therapy, and Mindfulness frameworks.

4. What kind of clients are you best able to support?

I work with children, adults and older adults. No one is too young or old. I can help people who are experiencing change or uncertainty in their life. We all go through periods where we have high expectations of ourselves, or times when we feel lonely and disconnected from others. If you are struggling with your mental health, I can help you in a supportive and non-judgmental way.

5. If you could be your own therapist right now, what do you think you would say to yourself?

Difficult times come and go. Be grateful for what you have and do something everyday that brings you joy.

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Connect with Suraj via our Asian Australian Mental Health Practitioner List HERE.

Alternatively, if you feel like Suraj may be a good fit for someone that you know, be sure to forward this page on to them too. Let us continue to not only support ourselves but all those around us too!

If you require urgent assistance, please do not contact Suraj or any of the practitioners on this list. Instead, please call emergency services on 000 or call Lifeline on 13 11 14.

Shapes and Sounds does not recommend or endorse Suraj or any of the practitioners listed on the Asian Australian Mental Health Practitioner List.

Please always consult your GP before making changes to your mental health care plan.