Sumita Changela, LPC

My experience, education, interest in meeting different personalities from a young age, and
passion for helping others have paved the path for me to become an effective therapist. 
I was brought up in New Delhi, India until the age of seven and then relocated to the United
States, a change that had a dramatic impact on my young self. The process of acculturation into
American society was no doubt challenging, but it was also an opportunity to learn how to
overcome difficult moments from a young age. I believe I learned the necessary coping skills
from my grandparents, as I grew up alongside them for most of my formative years.  

My maternal grandfather and his father were self-made successful entrepreneurs in northwest
India. Before the India-Pakistan partition in 1947, they were both owners of various businesses,
including commercial and residential real estate, movie theaters, and department stores as well as
wholesale contractors of goods for the Indian army all over north India. Then in 1947, the region
went under mass and quite violent migration, and over the course of only a few days my
grandfather and his whole family were forced to relocate to New Delhi. They had to leave behind
nearly everything, including their cars and planes and start over from scratch with very little. The
shock of losing all they had worked hard for was devastating. Nevertheless, my grandfather’s
resilience, kindness, and ability to connect with people helped him start a new life. I was
fortunate enough to have some amazing memories with him eating ice cream, homemade cheese
toast, and taking me to preschool. He taught me through our time together how to evolve under
difficult circumstances, never give up on your dreams, and the importance of taking time to heal
yourself and help others. 

With this experience, I carry forward the mindset of helping my clients grow and thrive. As we
all experience challenging times when we may not feel like ourselves. There are times in our life
we may feel lost, stuck, or experience the same unsatisfying relationships. Engaging with a
therapist, especially one you can connect with, can help. I believe pursuing therapy represents a
commitment to hope for a positive change and growth.  I am here to help in starting that journey
together. 

With a supportive and collaborative approach, I actively work with my clients to establish a
healthy sense of self through acquiring coping strategies to achieve an enhanced sense of
wellbeing. My approach is flexible, as I tailor the therapy according to the needs of the client. 
As an integrative therapist for over ten years, I incorporate insight-oriented work, practical
interventions, and cognitive/behavioral techniques, all within a nurturing relationship. I have had
the privilege to work with individuals from a variety of backgrounds and challenges. I always
work from a culturally sensitive and holistic approach to set goals for treatment and move
forward towards healing and growth in the various aspects of my client’s life.
I provide psychotherapy to adults addressing a broad range of concerns, but not limited to the
following: depression; anxiety; mood disorders; relationship issues; loneliness; identity concerns;
family issues; life transitions; stress/burnout; self-esteem; trauma; infertility; women’s issues;
grief; chronic pain; insomnia; caregiver and geriatric issues.

When I am not reading psychology books or articles, I enjoy travel, nature walks, painting,
flower arranging, and yoga.