Swara Kulkarni

Hello! My name is Swara Kulkarni, and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor Associate at Dayspring in Issaquah, working with individuals ages 13 and older. I earned my master’s in counseling psychology and doctorate in naturopathic medicine from Bastyr University. My clinical experience in both fields shapes my whole-person approach to counseling, recognizing how emotions, relationships, physical health, and culture influence one another. I support individuals navigating anxiety, depression, ADHD, self-esteem challenges, relationship
concerns, and life transitions. I offer compassionate care that honors each person’s identity, cultural background, and lived experience. I can also provide sessions in Hindi and Marathi if preferred.

How I Help

My approach to counseling is collaborative and person-centered, grounded in curiosity, compassion, and respect for your experiences. I value building a therapeutic relationship where you feel understood and comfortable speaking openly. Our work can include exploring patterns, understanding your needs, and developing practical skills for everyday life. I find meaning in helping people develop a kinder relationship with themselves and make choices that reflect what matters to them.

I draw from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy to help clients respond to difficult thoughts and feelings with greater flexibility and make choices that align with their values. I also incorporate Internal Family Systems informed approach to better understand self-critical patterns and develop self-compassion. In addition, I use mind-body and somatic approaches to recognize physical signs of stress and build grounding skills. Together, we will find an approach that fits your needs, building on what feels helpful and making adjustments along the way.

Life Transitions and Belonging

I support clients through changes in school, work, relationships, and family life, including fertility concerns and adjusting to parenthood. I hold space to explore cultural identity, family expectations, and belonging. Values exploration and motivational interviewing help us make sense of mixed feelings about change, clarify personal priorities, and identify meaningful next steps.

Emotional Well-Being

Anxiety, low mood, stress, and self-doubt can affect daily life and relationships. I help clients understand emotional patterns, develop coping skills, and respond to difficult thoughts and feelings with greater flexibility and compassion. I also incorporate mind-body practices to recognize and respond to physical signs of stress while encouraging manageable steps toward what matters most.

Neurodivergence

I believe different ways of thinking and experiencing the world deserve respect. Societal expectations don’t always make room for those differences. I offer affirming support with space to be yourself and explore what works for you. Together, we can strengthen self-acceptance, build confidence in expressing your needs, and find practical strategies that fit your life.

More About Me

I am drawn to counseling because I value supporting emotional well-being with an understanding of how mental health, physical health, and life experiences are connected. In my free time, I enjoy traveling, swimming, hiking, playing tennis, and exploring new places. I also enjoy discovering different cafes, planning a little adventure, and spending time with family and friends.