I am Sunaina, a South Asian counselor and Social Worker with over 12 years of experience supporting the Desi community. Having moved to Canada from Pakistan in the early 90s, I’ve made this country my home and understand the unique challenges of growing up as a Desi in the West.

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Throughout my career, I have worked on complex issues such as sexual violence, human trafficking, child protection, and family therapy. I am certified in therapies including Emotion-Focused Couples Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training, equipping me to help others navigate life’s challenges and heal from difficult experiences.

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As a fluent speaker of Hindi and Urdu, I am committed to preserving our cultural roots while helping others create a healthier balance between both worlds. Through my platform, Decoding Desis, I empower the community to “decode Desi culture” and navigate it in ways that support their well-being, relationships, and future generations.

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In addition to sharing insights on mental health and relationships, I also explore books that inspire personal growth, cultural understanding, and self-reflection. My book reviews on this site offer recommendations and reflections on reads that have personally impacted me and may resonate with others in our community.​

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