Monisha Preetha   

Monisha Preetha M is a psychologist and the founder of Altheia Psychological Centre, Bengaluru, with over five years of experience in the field of mental health. Her professional journey is guided by a commitment to making psychological support accessible, inclusive, and trauma-informed, with a particular focus on supporting survivors of sexual abuse and domestic violence. For Monisha, psychological care extends beyond addressing symptoms. It involves understanding each individual’s experiences, recognising the impact of their circumstances, and supporting them in developing the resources they need to navigate life’s challenges. This perspective informs her work with people experiencing trauma, emotional distress, relationship difficulties, and other psychological concerns. A central focus of Monisha’s professional practice is working with survivors of sexual abuse and domestic violence. Experiences of abuse can affect a person’s sense of safety, self-worth, trust, emotional regulation, relationships, and autonomy. Seeking psychological support can itself be difficult for survivors, particularly when their experiences have been met with disbelief, stigma, blame, or a lack of understanding.s Monisha is committed to providing trauma-informed psychological care that respects each person’s pace, boundaries, and individual needs. Her approach recognises that recovery is not a uniform or linear process and that survivors deserve to be heard and supported without being pressured to disclose more than they are comfortable sharing. Monisha’s commitment to inclusive mental healthcare is also informed by her early professional exposure to individuals across a range of disabilities during her internship experience. This experience contributed to her understanding of the diverse needs people may bring to psychological services and the importance of approaching every individual without assumptions about their abilities, experiences, or support requirements. Her work also includes LGBTQ+ affirmative practice. She is committed to providing a respectful therapeutic space in which individuals can explore their concerns, relationships, identities, and emotional experiences without fear of discrimination. Through this approach, she aims to support a more accepting and responsive mental healthcare environment for people from diverse backgrounds. Monisha’s contribution to mental healthcare also includes professional training, supervision, educational initiatives, and community engagement. She is committed to supporting emerging psychology professionals as they develop their knowledge, clinical reasoning, and understanding of ethical practice. She recognises that strengthening mental healthcare requires investment in both the people who seek support and the professionals who provide it. Opportunities for case discussions, professional learning, and collaboration can help psychologists reflect on their work, expand their perspectives, and continue developing their professional skills. Her journey reflects an ongoing commitment to survivor-centred care, inclusive psychological practice, and the broader goal of making mental health support more approachable and accessible. By bringing these values into her clinical work and professional initiatives, Monisha Preetha M aims to contribute to a society in which more individuals can access the support they need to rebuild confidence, strengthen their sense of agency, and pursue healthier, more fulfilling lives.