In a world where mental health remains shrouded in stigma, Divija Bhasin stands as a beacon of change. With an impressive academic background and a profound personal mission, Divija has founded The Friendly Couch, a platform designed to bridge the gap in mental health support across India. Her journey from childhood observations to a successful career in psychology showcases her dedication and visionary approach to mental health care.
A Dream Rooted in Childhood
Divija’s passion for mental health began in her early years. Growing up in the early 2000s, she witnessed family and friends struggling with mental health issues. Despite the societal taboos and the scarcity of qualified therapists in India at the time, those who sought professional help experienced significant improvements in their lives. These observations planted the seeds of a dream in young Divija—a dream to make mental health support accessible and acceptable.
“People should not be shamed for seeking support. Being vulnerable is what makes us human,” says Divija, reflecting on her early inspirations.
The Academic Journey
Divija’s academic journey is a testament to her commitment to psychology. Despite the subject not being offered in her school initially, her interest in psychology was undeniable. She read extensively and was part of the first batch at her school to study psychology at an academic level. This early exposure set the stage for her future studies.
She pursued a B.A. in Psychology Honours from Ambedkar University in Delhi, followed by an MSc in Applied Clinical Psychology from the University of Bath, UK, and an MA in Clinical Psychology from Amity University, Noida. These qualifications equipped her with the knowledge and skills necessary to make a significant impact in the field of mental health.
The Birth of The Friendly Couch
While working as a psychologist, Divija noticed a recurring issue: the demand for mental health support far exceeded the available resources. Her therapy sessions quickly filled up, prompting her to think beyond traditional methods. She began creating short Instagram videos on topics closely tied to mental health, such as culture, parenting, gender, and education. The positive response and validation from viewers encouraged her to expand her reach.
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Recognizing the need for more professional support, Divija hired additional therapists. The overwhelming demand for their services highlighted a significant gap in mental health care, leading to the creation of The Friendly Couch (TFC).
Vision and Mission of The Friendly Couch
The Friendly Couch aims to revolutionize mental health care in India. Divija’s mission is twofold: to connect people with reliable therapists and to increase overall awareness about mental health. TFC is committed to hiring professional, ethical, and qualified therapists to ensure that people receive the best possible support.
“Our belief is that one thing cannot work for everybody as human beings are all different. We follow an approach where therapy is tailored to your concerns,” explains Divija. This personalized approach empowers individuals by addressing their unique challenges and providing them with the tools they need to thrive.
A Vision for the Future
Divija’s vision for The Friendly Couch is expansive. While the platform started small, the dream has always been to make a significant impact on people’s mental health journeys. By increasing awareness and providing reliable support, TFC aims to create a world where mental well-being is fully supported.
“We want to create impact. Our ultimate goal is to create a world where mental well-health is fully supported, so you can thrive,” says Divija.
In conclusion, Divija Bhasin’s journey from a concerned child to the founder of The Friendly Couch is an inspiring story of dedication, innovation, and compassion. Her efforts are transforming mental health care in India, making it more accessible and acceptable for all. Through The Friendly Couch, Divija continues to empower individuals, helping them navigate their mental health journeys with confidence and support.
References & Source Credits: thefriendlycouch.com
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