top of page

Meet Purna

My Story

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.

Purna Bajekal headshot

My Approach

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

IMG_0014.HEIC

Holistic

Taking your entire being into account, a holistic therapeutic approach connects your mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual selves to better understand the whole of your experience. In practice, this means joining body movement and mindfulness with traditional talk therapy as you navigate your healing journey. This is informed by my training in Somatic Counseling, Dance Movement Therapy, and Sensorimotor Psychotherapy.

IMG_0015.HEIC

Culturally Responsive and Inclusive 

It can be hard to find a therapist who understands how living with marginalized identities impacts the way we show up in the world—and for ourselves. Through celebrating your identity, affirming your cultural experiences, and developing your strengths, I will support you in working through trauma related to oppression. I specialize in working with BIPOC and LGBTQ+ individuals and first and second generation immigrants.

IMG_0016.HEIC

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.

IMG_0017.HEIC

Trauma-Informed

I understand the signs, symptoms, and widespread impact of trauma. My approach uses techniques to help you process trauma in a safe and supportive environment while avoiding retraumatization.

Areas of Specialty

  • ​BIPOC & LGBTQ+ Individuals

  • Immigrants + Children of Immigrants

  • University Students

  • Identity Challenges

  • Shame and Imposter Syndrome

  • Self-Esteem and Self-Worth 

  • People Pleasing

  • Life Transitions

  • Relationship Challenges

  • Chronic Illness

Education & Credentials

Education:

Bachelors of Arts in Psychology | Southwestern University

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

​

Licensure:

Licensed Professional Counselor (#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 and Training Institution (2020)

Sensorimotor Psychotherapy Level 1 (in progress)  | Sensorimotor Psychotherapy Institute (2023)

​

bottom of page