Meet Purna

I was born and raised in Austin, Texas to immigrant parents from India. Growing up, I have navigated different cultural contexts throughout my life, learning to embrace my bicultural identity.

Since childhood, I have practiced Bharata Natyam, a South Indian classical dance form. Over the years, dance has been a source of creative expression and a way to build confidence and body awareness while staying connected to my cultural heritage. Today, it is also a spiritual practice—a space for healing, growth, and empowerment.

I found such healing in my movement practice that I felt drawn to studying somatic counseling and dance movement therapy, so I could support others to live more authentically and increase their own body awareness. 

I received my B.A. in Psychology from Southwestern University, and my M.A. from Naropa University in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and Somatic Counseling + Dance Movement Therapy. My education at Naropa weaved together somatic counseling, mindfulness, and social justice, all of which are important in the work I do. In my career, I have worked with diverse populations including survivors of domestic violence, university students, and BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ communities.

​Ayurveda and yoga also played a vital role in my life. Integrating nourishing foods, herbal remedies, and personalized holistic practices tailored to address my individual needs has been integral in my healing journey. I incorporate my knowledge of these ancient practices into my therapeutic work and continue to develop my expertise.​

Outside of work, I enjoy gardening, hiking on the greenbelt, cooking, spending time with my friends and family, and dancing and performing around Austin.

My Approach

My approach to therapy is holistic, culturally responsive and inclusive, client-centered, and trauma-informed

If traditional talk therapy hasn’t quite resonated with you, you might find what you’re looking for here.

HOLISTIC

Rooted in a holistic approach, my work considers your entire being—mind, body, heart, and spirit. By weaving together mindfulness, somatic awareness, and traditional talk therapy, we create space to explore the full depth of your experience to support meaningful, integrated healing. This is informed by my training in Somatic Therapy, Dance Movement Therapy, Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, Ayurveda, and Yoga.

CULTURALLY RESPONSIVE & ATTUNED

Our identities shape how we experience the world—but they are only one part of a much fuller story. In our work together, we’ll honor the impact of culture, lineage, and lived experience, while also creating space to explore the parts of you that exist beyond roles and expectations. I specialize in working with people of color and LGBTQ+ individuals, as well as first- and second-generation immigrants.

CLIENT-CENTERED

You deserve to feel autonomous in your healing journey. My approach is attuned to your needs and recognizes trust as a cornerstone of the client-therapist relationship. I work to build that trust and cultivate a collaborative space so that you are an active participant in the therapy process.

TRAUMA-INFORMED

I recognize the many ways trauma can impact your thoughts, body, and relationships. My approach is grounded in creating a safe, supportive space where your healing unfolds at your own pace. With care and attunement, I use techniques that help you process trauma, always honoring your readiness and resilience.

Education & Credentials


EDUCATION

Bachelors of Arts in Psychology | Southwestern University

Masters of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
specialization in Somatic Counseling + Dance Movement Therapy
| Naropa University 

LICENSURE

Licensed Professional Counselor (TX #85848) | Texas State Board of Examiners of Professional Counselors 

Board Certified Dance Movement Therapist | American Dance Therapy Association 

CERTIFICATIONS

Dialectical Behavioral Therapy Facilitator | Noeticus Counseling Center & Training Institution (2020)

Yoga Teacher Training 200 Hour (in progress) - Open Space Yoga

Ayurvedic Integrative Wellness Counselor Training (in progress) - Rooted Rasa