Niyatee Sukumaran, Ph.D.

Services offered via Teletherapy

Niyatee Sukumaran, Ph.D., PMH-C, is a licensed clinical psychologist in California specializing in individual therapy for adults and emerging adults. Dr. Sukumaran creates a supportive environment in therapy by fostering a therapeutic relationship of mutual respect, trust, and collaboration. Her approach is culturally informed and includes gaining a deep understanding of her clients’ intersecting identities and relevant systemic issues, and the impact this has on their experiences and worldview. By doing so, Dr. Sukumaran facilitates lasting change that leads to a more meaningful, fulfilling, and successful life.

Dr. Sukumaran utilizes action-oriented therapy approaches grounded in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Interpersonal Process Theory with a multicultural and social justice framework. She incorporates mindfulness, meditation, and breathing techniques to help her clients better understand the mind-body connection. Her integrative, holistic approach helps clients strengthen their adaptive coping skills, increase insight and self-awareness, and cultivate self-compassion.

Areas of Specialization
Dr. Sukumaran is passionate about serving a diverse international community and has a special interest in working with fellow therapists and clients within the BIPOC community. She is skilled in helping clients navigate their cultural worldviews and explore and affirm their identities. Dr. Sukumaran specializes in helping clients heal from anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, and sexual assault, as well as manage life transitions and address relationship concerns. Dr. Sukumaran is a certified in perinatal mental health and skilled in helping families cope during the perinatal period and address Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders (PMADS) that may arise.

Dr. Sukumaran is fluent in English and Hindi, and primarily provides therapy in English.

For insurance and mental health benefit information, please click here.

Education & Training

  • Doctor of Philosophy in Counseling Psychology, University of Missouri-Kansas City, Kansas City, MO
  • APPIC-approved Postdoctoral Residency at University of California, San Diego (UCSD), Counseling and Psychological Services

Professional Affiliations & Duties

  • Certified Perinatal Mental Health (PMH-C) psychologist from Postpartum Support International (PSI)
  • Specialized in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) from EMDR International Association (EMDRIA): Part I & II with an emphasis on perinatal mental health. Currently In-consultation to becoming certified as an EMDR therapist.

For a copy of Dr. Sukumaran’s Curriculum Vitae, click here.

To view blog articles written by Dr. Sukumaran, click here.