Meet Sarini Ettigi, Ph.D., HSP-P
Dr. Sarini Ettigi is a clinical and counseling psychologist who specializes in working with individuals recovering from trauma, as well as those who may experience difficulty with stages of identity development, life transitions, interpersonal conflict, and gender identity issues. Her areas of clinical expertise include working with BIPOC (black, indigenous, and people of color) communities, cultural dissonance, sleep health, mindfulness, and women’s oppression issues. She works with individuals and couples. Her couples work focuses on pre-marital concerns and issues.
Breyta Ask Me Anything:
What is your favorite thing about being a therapist?
Observing my clients take on challenges and obstacles along the path of “change” is one of the most pivotal and beautiful moments in the therapeutic process. Developing a deep meaningful connection with my client on their journey and gaining their trust while ensuring they have a safe place to return each session is truly fulfilling and rewarding.
What do you think is the most effective part of therapy?
In addition to a strong therapeutic alliance between therapist and client, a sense of genuine commitment to the process is key to progress. Within my integrated therapeutic approach to therapy, I encourage the client to develop a sense of trust within themselves throughout our journey together. Once commitment and self-trust are established, I then work with the client to maintain their sense of genuine support, while encouraging them along the way to trust the process.
What is one thing you wish people knew about therapy?
Believe it or not, more people are in therapy than you think. The well-known stigma of seeking therapy is fading and more and more individuals are reaching out to mental health resources. Just as we invest in taking care of our bodies, I believe it is vital to take responsibility for our “mental hygiene”. There will never be a perfect time to begin therapy, so there is never a better time than now!
How does your personality influence your approach to therapy?
I appreciate transparency and embracing the present moment when communicating in general and I tend to follow suit when I sit with clients. I find this makes for more genuine connection and meaningful exchange throughout the therapeutic experience. I incorporate aspects of mindfulness and offer meditation in therapy and practice these skills as a form of self-care daily. I also believe my South Asian American presence influences my approach to therapy as a clinician of color, particularly how I navigate and address cultural conflict within systems of race, gender, sexual orientation, and other oppressed communities.
If you have a question for Dr. Ettigi, please feel free to email her directly at: [email protected].
