Although my family origins stem from Bangladesh, I was born and raised in West Virginia. Growing up as a first-generation American in a rural community and experiencing the influence of culture on one’s identity, including incidents of racial discrimination were among the critical factors that inspired me to become a psychologist.

The foundation of my therapeutic style is a collaborative and trusting relationship where individuals feel safe exploring what brings them into therapy. I integrate trauma-informed cognitive, behavioral, and mindfulness-based therapies into my clinical work and consider myself a generalist in having worked with children, adolescents, and adults throughout my global career path.

I completed my doctorate in counseling psychology from the University of Houston as a directly commissioned active-duty officer in the United States Air Force to complete my degree and was stationed in Barksdale AFB, Louisiana from 2009-12. The four years I spent as an active-duty officer allowed me to forge my leadership skills and professional identity while familiarizing myself with the intricacies and demands of a military lifestyle. It was also during this time that I met my husband and learned the nuances of being both a military spouse and expatriate. I have also worked with “third culture” kids and families during our recent time living overseas as part of U.S. Embassy missions in Africa and Europe.

I love going for bike rides, walks, and hikes with my husband and boys. I also enjoy the benefits of regularly practicing meditation and yoga as part of my personal routine.