Simran Mayadas

Available for In-person Sessions & Teletherapy

I approach counseling from a collaborative, client-centered perspective, which means that I believe the individual ultimately has the knowledge and power to create desired changes. We often struggle to define our environments and selves within a framework built by others. Each individual is ultimately the expert in their lives, and I am here as a skillful, non-biased guide. I believe that the relationships we build with ourselves and others are constantly evolving as we adapt to new stimuli in our environment along the journey of life. I find that working through discrepancies and congruencies between internal and external relationships can support growth and self-awareness. Through relationships, we are constantly challenged, and each relationship dynamic is unique. Feeling connected to ourselves, other human beings, and our environment are crucial components to feeling content and happy in our daily lives.

It is often difficult to remain present and experience the journey in a culture so tied to outcomes. I have found that practicing mindfulness can alleviate anxiety and other unwanted experiences; it helps us refocus towards our inner experience, honor core values and desires, and live in the present moment. I teach mindfulness in my practice as a tool for seeking peace and purpose, as well as increasing resilience. Uncomfortable emotions can stem from a combination of our beliefs, judgments, preferences, survival skills, and traumatic imprints. Learning to use mindfulness skills as these emotions arise in the present moment is often the first step to healing and releasing the root stresses and/or outdated belief systems that maintain unhelpful feeling and behavior patterns. Utilizing mindfulness skills is an important component of emotional intelligence, which is a key factor in minimizing stress on the mind/body system and increasing your ability to navigate life transitions.

I also enjoy working with people to support their discovery of individual alignment. This means clarifying the client’s personal definitions of self, identity, love, culture and roles, in order to increase their sense of authenticity, freedom, and self-acceptance. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to support the transformation of negative self-talk and to encourage empowerment and self-worth, combined with somatic interventions to bring the individual back to the present and process/release any tension, anxiety, grief, trauma, etc. that is being stored in the body. I believe in the power of healing the mind, body and spirit as one.

My spirituality comes from feeling connected to my environment and my physical body, and from enjoying fulfilling relationships with other humans. I most often access this connection through a living mindfulness meditation, which includes consistent, intentional presence and breath awareness. I encourage others to explore their spirituality, and believe it is spirituality that ultimately drives us and sets the foundation for individual expression.

More About Simran

I hold a Bachelor of Science in Human Services from California State University, Fullerton and a Master of Arts in Counseling from Palo Alto University. During my undergraduate work, I had the unique experience of facilitating personal growth and exploration groups for students within the university. I also gained experience working with individuals who were homeless and transitioning to stable housing, particularly single mothers. During graduate school, I had the honor of interning at Capital Area Counseling in Austin, where I provided counseling to individuals of various backgrounds and socioeconomic status. Here, I also facilitated a mindfulness group designed to introduce individuals to the practice of mindfulness in everyday living.

After earning my Bachelor’s degree, I worked as an Intake Coordinator at a drug and alcohol rehabilitation facility, supporting individuals seeking treatment to get the care they needed. I also worked for several years as a Case Manager/Rehabilitation Specialist for a number of outpatient facilities, assisting individuals with severe and persistent mental illness in their transition from the hospitals back into the community in order to achieve their personal goals.

My personal and professional experiences, along with schooling, have guided me along the path of becoming a counselor. I have always wanted to help people by supporting personal growth and wellbeing. I strive to be authentic, congruent and empathic in all aspects of my life, and encourage others to do the same. I am honored walk alongside you and provide guidance on your journey of self-exploration and peace-seeking.