Children First ExpertSoumya Jagatdeb
MA, BA, Diploma
5 years of experience
I offer mental health care for individuals aged 8–25.
I am Soumya Jagatdeb (she/her), a Psychologist, Narrative Therapist, and the Coordinator of Mental Health Services and the Schools That Care (STC) program at Children First. I have over 5 years of experience in the field of mental health, during which I have had the privilege of working with numerous children, young adults, and families. These experiences have significantly enriched my practice, helping me develop a nuanced understanding of diverse socio-emotional challenges and the unique ways in which individuals and families navigate through them.
I find deep meaning in engaging with young people to co-create safe therapeutic spaces that are respectful of their problems, hopes, skills, and interests while also exploring the vital role of society and culture in shaping these experiences. In my work with children and young adults, I aim to create a therapeutic environment that recognizes the complexity of each individual's experiences. I view therapy as a collaborative process, integrating the young person’s voice and choices into every step. While I lean on a narrative approach, I may also borrow from other therapeutic techniques, tailoring them to the young person’s needs. I explore how their stories connect to larger systems — family, school, community — that influence their lives as well. I like to work with different socio-emotional concerns ranging from anxiety, body image issues to trauma, instances of violence and other adverse events. I also remain sensitive to intersectional factors, honoring how culture, identity, and individual differences weave into their experiences. Ultimately, I strive to co-create a compassionate space where children, young adults and families feel truly seen, heard, and valued.
I am also interested in community mental health, training, research and in taking some time out for reading and writing.
Concerns I can help with
I always assume people are judging meI’m exhausted, even when I do nothingI feel disconnected from everythingNo matter what I do, relationships don’t work outI don’t know who I really amI feel like I don’t fit in anywhereI feel lost all the timeI can’t trust my own feelingsNothing ever works out for meI overthink everythingI overthink every conversationI'm tired of feeling this way and want things to changeI don't know if therapy will work for meI'm afraid of being judgedI feel overwhelmed and don't know what to doI don't know if I can talk about thisI've never done anything like this beforeI'm not sure where to start
I offer therapy for
Anxiety & Panic Attacks
Low Mood & Mood Swings
Self-Harm or Suicidal Thoughts
Sudden Changes in Behaviour
Social Withdrawal & Isolation
Difficulty Concentrating & Staying Focused
Bullying & Peer Difficulties
Relationship Struggles
Difficulty Opening Up & Expressing Emotions
Confusion About Identity
Gender & Sexuality Concerns
Separation Anxiety
Social Anxiety
Sleep Disturbances & Nightmares
Body Discomfort & Unexplained Physical Complaints
Get started with an information session
What does it mean?
The information session is the first interaction with a psychologist to understand the concerns and plan the best support.
Whom will you meet?
Psychologists, Narrative Practitioners
Duration: 1 hour
What will happen?
Discussion on concerns, history & strengths
Next Steps: Collaborative discussion for a care plan with therapy or further assessments
I am Trained in
1
Family Systems Therapy
2
Narrative Therapy
3
Solution Focused Brief Therapy
4
Parent Work
Languages I speak
English
Hindi
Odia
My Affiliations
Psychologist, Narrative Therapist at Children First from Jul 2019 to present
FAQs
Why did you choose to become a therapist?
My natural curiosity and passion for reflection led me to this profession. Working with young people, I find purpose in co-creating spaces where they feel valued and supported, helping them navigate challenges while celebrating their unique strengths and stories.
For those in need of more intensive care and daily support, our Mental Health Hospital is now open in Bangalore.
If you or someone you know is experiencing at-risk behaviors or safety concerns, or any other life-threatening extreme-case issues or critical mental health situation, contact a helpline or go to the nearest hospital or extreme-case support room. Having a close family member or friend with you for support can be invaluable during this time.
For extreme-case mental health support, please call the national Tele MANAS helpline at 1-800-891-4416.
If you or someone you know is experiencing at-risk behaviors or safety concerns, or any other life-threatening extreme-case issues or critical mental health situation, contact a helpline or go to the nearest hospital or extreme-case support room. Having a close family member or friend with you for support can be invaluable during this time.
For extreme-case mental health support, please call the national Tele MANAS helpline at 1-800-891-4416.