About Me

Hi there! My name is Saira [she/they], and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with my own psychotherapy practice in Denver, CO. I earned my Bachelor's degree at Boston University, where I explored my interests in systems and mental health through research and direct service. This work motivated me to pursue training as a psychotherapist through a Master's degree in social work. I have since trained and practiced with clients from a wide range of backgrounds, in a variety of settings throughout the Greater Denver Area. Within academia, I most recently co-led a study through Villanova University about the decolonization lens for psychotherapy.

While I love my work as a researcher and psychotherapist, I have been yearning for a meaningful way to address the impact of systems on clients' lives. Clinical training has always seemed overwhelmed by this topic, and rarely offers a space for collaboration and guidance. This desire became even more pressing throughout 2020 and 2021, during which systemic failures were intensifying. I began challenging systemic narratives with my clients, which opened up possibilities for healing I had not thought possible thus far in my career. By evaluating systems in clients' lives, I developed insights relevant for addressing the country's ongoing mental health crisis. 

I have felt compelled to share my insights via speaking engagements, systems equity consulting, and other advocacy efforts. I started this process through several press interviews, and work through National Association of Social Workers [NASW]. In my capacity as NASW-CO President, I have contributed to state and national legislation, and updated practice standard guidelines. I recently created a Substack towards the goal of a platform for social workers to contribute to public discourse about the impact of systemic failures on our collective well-being. I intend to specifically advocate for social workers' needs resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic, and beyond. My wheels are always turning.

Outside of work, I love sitting at the park with a good book, writing in my journal, exploring restaurants, tending to my plants, cooking South Asian food, and satiating in pop culture mental health content. I also love connecting and laughing with my loved ones, both in Colorado and throughout the world.