NASEEM MIRHAIDARI, CT

Naseem Mirhaidari (pronouns: she/her) is a counselor trainee who works with children, adolescents, young adults, and families. Her specialty interests include: trauma, depression, mood disorders, anxiety, autism spectrum disorder, developmental disabilities, and the broader neurodivergent population. She is also passionate about supporting individuals who are navigating challenges related to self-esteem and developing healthy coping skills. She utilizes treatment approaches that are evidence-based and uniquely tailored to each client.

Naseem completed her advanced education at Kent State University, earning a bachelor’s degree in psychology with a concentration in child psychology. She has taken specialized coursework in trauma in adolescence as well as child-focused work. She is currently earning her master’s degree at her alma mater in clinical mental health counseling. Growing up with a bilingual upbringing (English and Farsi), Naseem understands the challenges that can come with navigating language, culture, and identity. This has shaped her perspective working with bilingual families and individuals from diverse backgrounds. She values the role that culture plays in shaping experiences and is passionate about providing a safe, inclusive, and culturally aware space where clients feel empowered and seen.

Prior to private practice, Naseem worked with children on the autism spectrum where she gained valuable experience as a registered behavior technician (RBT) for four years. Naseem also worked at a psychiatrist’s office as a care manager. There she has gained valuable experience and deepened her understanding of mental illness. This experience also fostered her empathy, compassion and interpersonal sensitivity to others.

Naseem’s approach to counseling is person-centered as she meets clients where there at. She strives to build a foundation of trust and empathy in a non-judgmental environment. She believes it is important to see the client as a whole person, not focus solely on their problems and aims to understand the bigger picture of each client’s experiences. In addition to being a non-judgmental, compassionate listener, she aims to create a safe environment for clients where they can feel comfortable sharing their feelings and strive to become their best self. She enjoys utilizing humor, psychoeducation, and the creative arts in sessions.

Her strengths include: kindness, empathy, love of learning, open-mindedness, non-judgmental nature, and a desire to empower clients to push beyond their comfort zones and step into their best selves.