Shivani Patel (she/her)

My expertise addresses executive functioning challenges, emotional regulation, sensory sensitivities, social communication differences, and the exhaustion of masking. As a music therapist with lived experience, I understand the importance of being seen as a whole person beyond your diagnosis. This work helps neurodivergent adults develop self-advocacy skills, build authentic relationships, and navigate life transitions while honoring their unique neurology.

I have specialized expertise in supporting South Asian families navigating neurodivergent diagnoses (ADHD, Autism) within cultural contexts that may stigmatize mental health and disability. This work addresses family conflict arising from differing understandings of neurodivergence, cultural pressure to conform, delayed diagnosis due to cultural stigma, and the challenge of advocating for neurodivergent needs while honoring collectivist values.

I specialize in supporting individuals through life transitions including aging-related concerns, career changes, relationship shifts, and family role changes—particularly for BIPOC and immigrant communities navigating these transitions within complex cultural contexts. My work addresses intergenerational trauma, family conflict, bi-cultural identity development, and the impact of childhood trauma on current functioning.

I'm a Board-Certified Music Therapist specializing in neurodivergent-affirming approaches that honor ADHD and Autistic neurologies rather than pathologizing difference. Music therapy provides creative, non-verbal pathways for emotional processing, sensory regulation, and self-expression—particularly powerful for neurodivergent individuals who find traditional talk therapy limiting.

My therapy doesn't pathologize South Asian family dynamics or force Western individualism—instead, I help clients navigate family conflict, cultural pressure, and identity development while respecting cultural context. This culturally-informed approach ensures therapy feels authentic to your lived experience as a South Asian individual or family.

My therapeutic style is gentle, collaborative, and deeply trauma-informed. I create safe space for processing difficult emotions, revisiting past wounds, and sitting with discomfort without rushing toward solutions. This reflective approach honors the pace of healing while building insight and self-awareness. I integrate practical skill-building with emotional processing, adapting to what you need.