Psychologist · Counsellor · Visiting Consultant

A space where you are
seen, heard, and whole.

You don't need to have all the answers to begin. Sometimes the most meaningful step is simply choosing to reach out — to someone who will truly listen, without judgement.

Begin Your Journey Take the Wellness Check
Swastika Suraj Mahalaxmikar — Psychologist and Counsellor
MSc Psychology
About Swastika

Psychology isn't just my profession — it's my purpose.

I'm Swastika Mahalaxmikar — a psychologist, counsellor, and educator based in Karwar, India. I hold an MSc in Psychology with clinical specialisation from Kateel Ashoka Pai Memorial College, Shivamogga, and a Diploma in Career and Educational Counselling. I have spent over 10,000 hours across hospitals, rehabilitation centres, old age homes, and schools — learning what it truly means to sit with someone in their pain.

I was formerly a PGT Psychology teacher and counsellor at Navy Children School, Karwar, where I independently managed the Psychology department for Classes 11 and 12, and provided counselling support to students. I now work as a visiting counselling consultant at Arth Medical and Sparsh Polyclinic, serving people across all age groups — from children and adolescents to elderly adults.

My approach is grounded in a simple belief: every person who reaches out is already enough. I am trained in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Art and Play Therapy, Life Coaching, and Positive Parenting — drawing on the approach that genuinely fits each individual. My work is not to fix you, but to help you find what was always there.

"Saakshat" — Sanskrit for "witness." To be seen. To be present. That is what I offer.

Individual Counselling Adolescent Mental Health Career Guidance Couple Therapy Family Counselling Academic Stress NLP Practitioner Hypnotherapy

"Mental health is not a destination — it is a practice. And every step towards understanding yourself matters."

How I Can Help

A compassionate space for every kind of struggle.

Every person who reaches out carries a unique story. These are the areas where I walk alongside people — drawing on evidence-based approaches, always at your pace, always without judgement.

Individual Counselling

One-on-one sessions to explore what's weighing on you — anxiety, low mood, life transitions, identity, or simply feeling stuck. A private space that belongs entirely to you.

Academic & Career Guidance

For students, young adults, and professionals navigating exam stress, subject choices, career confusion, or the overwhelming pressure to "figure it all out." You don't have to decide alone.

Couple & Family Counselling

Relationships are complex. Whether you're navigating conflict, communication breakdowns, or major transitions — sessions for couples and families are a space to be heard and understood together.

Adolescent Support

Growing up is hard. Teenagers face unique pressures — peer dynamics, academic demands, identity questions. Sessions are designed to feel safe, non-preachy, and genuinely helpful.

Stress & Anxiety Management

Using evidence-based tools including CBT, NLP, mindfulness, and art therapy to help you understand your stress response and build practical coping skills that actually work.

Psychometric Assessment

Structured assessments for learning styles, personality, emotional intelligence, and mental status — providing clarity that supports better decisions in school, work, and relationships.

Wellness Check-In

Take 2 minutes to check in with yourself.

This isn't a diagnosis — just a gentle reflection. Five questions to give you a window into where you are right now.

The Inner Mirror

Answer honestly. There are no wrong responses — only yours.

Question 1 of 5
Ethics & Values

A practice built on trust.

These aren't just policies — they're the foundations on which every session rests. You deserve to know exactly what you're stepping into.

Absolute Confidentiality

What you share in this space stays here. Your information is never disclosed without your written consent. The only exceptions are clear legal or safety obligations — and you will always be informed first.

APA · RCI · IPA Guidelines

Informed Consent, Always

You will always know what therapy involves, what the goals are, what the risks might be, and what your rights are — before we begin. You hold the steering wheel at all times.

Client Autonomy

Zero Discrimination

This space is for everyone — regardless of gender, caste, religion, sexual orientation, or socio-economic background. No one is turned away. No one is made to feel less.

Safe & Inclusive Space

Professional Boundaries

Clear, consistent limits protect you. Counselling only happens in professional settings. No informal platforms for therapy. No dual relationships. Your safety and objectivity are non-negotiable.

Professional Integrity

Your Right to Stop

Therapy is voluntary. You can pause, ask questions, or end the process at any point. Your agency in this relationship is total. We go only as far as you choose to go.

Client Rights

Evidence-Based Practice

Sessions are grounded in established frameworks — Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, NLP, mindfulness, art therapy, and more. Continuous learning is a commitment, not an option.

MSc Trained · Ongoing CPD
What Clients Share

Words from those who walked through the door.

Every experience shared here belongs to someone who took a courageous step to seek support. Names and identifying details are withheld to protect confidentiality — always.

The way you used my background to show me that my current situation isn't a roadblock was huge. You helped me realise there's a whole world of opportunity and that my life doesn't have to be defined by just one place. Mapping my personal growth to my goals made everything feel much more achievable and a lot less heavy.
Female, 29 · Working Professional
From the very first session, I felt welcomed, listened to, and understood. The sessions were insightful and thoughtfully structured. I particularly appreciated the professionalism, empathy, and ability to explain things clearly. The support I received has made a meaningful difference in my well-being.
Female, 34 · Individual Counselling
Months with you felt like days. I feel so excited to meet you and discuss my problems — you listen so patiently without any judgement or bias. I felt safe, relaxed, and cared for in a way I had been missing for a long time. I have no words to express my gratitude.
Female, 26 · Long-term Client
I was struggling with loneliness and a sense of losing purpose after my children moved away. Talking to you felt comforting because you listened without judgement and truly understood my emotions. I feel calmer, more hopeful, and emotionally stronger because of the support you provided.
Female, 58 · Life Transition
Before our sessions, I was constantly worried about whether I was being too strict or not doing enough for my child. Through your guidance, I learned the importance of balancing discipline with emotional connection. I now feel more confident and mindful as a parent.
Male, 42 · Parent · Family Counselling
Read all experiences
Get In Touch

You don't need a reason. Every message is welcome.

Whether you have a specific concern, a question about what counselling involves, or simply want to understand if it might help — every message is read personally by Swastika and taken seriously. Sessions are available online and in-person.

LinkedIn
Swastika Mahalaxmikar
Instagram
@the_psychologist_swastika

Ready to have that first conversation?

Sessions are held online and in-person. Whether you're in Karwar, Bengaluru, or anywhere else — we'll find a way to connect that works for you.

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