Zehn Practice // Child, Teen & Family Psychology

Shruti Padwal
Child Psychotherapist

Child Psychologist & Psychotherapist (MA & MSc)

“Healing begins when a child and their family feels genuinely seen, without pressure or rushed expectations.”

For me, supporting young minds is rooted in deep patience, curiosity, and a profound respect for how children and teenagers communicate their inner worlds. Understanding that behavior is often a message, my practice focuses on decoding those signals to help children and families navigate emotional and developmental hurdles together.

With over fourteen years of dedicated clinical and school counselling experience, including my long-standing work as a Child Psychotherapist &

Neurodiversity & Acceptance

Shruti provides a neurodiversity-affirming space where differences are not seen as deficits to be 'fixed' but as unique ways of experiencing the world. She works collaboratively with children and their families to build strategies that honor the child's natural way of being, focusing on strengths and genuine self-acceptance rather than forced conformity.

The Caregiver-Integrated Approach

Healing for a child rarely happens in isolation. Shruti integrates caregivers into the therapeutic journey, offering a space for parents to feel supported, less alone, and more equipped. This integrated approach ensures that the progress made in the therapy room translates into sustained positive changes within the family home.

What a Journey Looks Like

Safety & Connection

We begin by building a genuine bond. Before any 'work' happens, the child needs to feel safe, understood, and entirely at ease in the space.

Exploration & Insight

Together, we explore big feelings and behaviors. We identify triggers and untangle the 'why' behind what's happening, involving the family as needed.

Integration & Growth

We build practical skills and new ways of connecting, helping the whole family move forward with more resilience and emotional clarity.

Ready to take the first step together?

You don't need to have all the answers. Reach out to schedule an initial conversation with Shruti.

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Counsellor at MET Rishikul Vidyalaya in Mumbai, I bring a wealth of expertise in observing and addressing early developmental and emotional needs. My clinical foundation is built on rigorous academic training, holding an M.Sc. in Child Psychology from Kingston University, London, and an M.A. in Clinical Psychology from S.N.D.T. University, alongside extensive hands-on work with neurodiversity, including Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, and specific learning difficulties.

My therapeutic approach is grounded in creating a safe, non-judgmental environment where young clients feel genuinely seen and understood. By integrating evidence-informed frameworks, such as Play Therapy, Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, Behaviour Therapy, and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, I work closely with children, adolescents, and parents. Beyond individual therapy, I am deeply passionate about psycho-education, frequently training teachers, support staff, and caregivers in social skills, positive parenting strategies, and child protection.

Based in Bandra West, Mumbai, and offering online support across India, I provide specialised child psychology services, adolescent counselling, and collaborative parenting guidance designed to help families build everyday resilience, emotional regulation, and lasting connection at their own pace.

Shruti Padwal Child Psychotherapist