DR. SHEETAL KINI, Ph.D. (USA)

Clinical Psychologist

“I believe in providing a non-judgmental and empathic space where my clients can find safety and direction in this important journey of self-discovery.”

Having been raised in the Middle East as well as the United States, I have learned the importance of cultural context in understanding people’s experiences.  My curiosity for the human experience led me to pursue my doctoral studies in clinical psychology. I specialize in two distinct areas within this field; Special Education Needs (Learning Disabilities) as well as Relationship Therapy (individual as well as couples therapy). 

I currently head the department for Special Education Needs (SEN) at the Lighthouse and I believe that therapy is an integral part of any treatment protocol. However, assessing before intervening is always the gold standard.

Due to my passion for learning and education, I have trained widely on assessing, diagnosing, and formulating treatments for a variety of mood, learning and neurological disorders that impact learning in children as well as adults. I have had extensive experience in assessing for a myriad of presenting concerns that negatively impact learning such as ADHD, Dyslexia, Dyscalculia, Dysgraphia, Reading comprehension difficulties, Autism Spectrum Disorders in addition to mood/behavioral concerns.  

My other area of expertise is in individual and couples relationship therapy. Although I am a trained Cognitive Behavioral Therapist with over 8 years of experience in working with Anxiety and Depressive disorders, I often conceptualize these issues in a relational framework.  Additionally, I received my couples therapy training at the internationally renowned Gottman Institute. Our modern, busy lifestyles can weaken the friendship within a marriage or relationship and leave room for conflict and miscommunication. My therapy program focuses heavily on assessing your strengths and weaknesses as a unit, and then helping to rebuild your relationship.

Expertise

In addition to couples therapy, I work with adults on the following:

  • Adjustment
  • Anxiety
  • Depression
  • Personality disorders
  • Trauma-related disorders

TOOLS

  • Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
  • Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
  • Interpersonal and psychodynamic approaches

Qualifications and memberships

  • Cum laude, College of William and Mary, US
  • PhD in Clinical Psychology, University of Houston, US
  • Trained by The Gottman Institute