Dr. Bhavna

Psychologist, Educator & Developer.

Bio

"Your ancestors did not survive everything that nearly ended them for you to shrink yourself to make someone else comfortable."

- Nikita Gill

With fourteen years of experience in Psychology, Dr. Bhavna is an accomplished Psychologist who brings a unique perspective as a woman born in the UK and identifying with heritage and roots. She embraces the power of her ancestry, integrating this knowledge into her position as a scientific practitioner. Drawing inspiration from her lineage, which includes grandparents who were forced to migrate in 1947 due to India's partition — an outcome of British colonial rule ending — Dr. Bhavna recognizes the significance of historical context in her work. She understands the importance of addressing the impact of colonial violence, plunders, and systemic inequalities and actively incorporates this awareness into her approach as a psychologist and academic.

Work

"If you find a book you really want to read but it hasn't been written yet, then you must write it."

- Audre Lorde

Grenfell Tower

Bhavna stands in seeking justice for the residents of the Grenfell Tower Fire. This grew from her research on the disaster. Justice for Grenfell - always.

Find out more:

https://grenfellunited.org.uk/

Bhavna recently completed her doctoral research that examines the lived experiences of Grenfell Tower Residents, specifically racialised populations, in the aftermath of the Grenfell Tower Fire. Using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis, she analysed the data to gain insights into the complexities of lived psychological experiences following disasters, with a particular focus on the contextual subjects of race, racialisation, systemic violence, coloniality and justice.

Abstract: https://repository.uel.ac.uk/item/8w525

NHS Service Development

Bhavna worked on a service development proposal for young refugee people. The service proposal was awarded funding for both Lambeth and Southwark NHS CAMHS services.

Through this work, she has explored the relationship between diasporic backgrounds, risk factors, and psychological presentations, gaining valuable insights into the unique challenges faced by this population, such as political warfare, racism and institutional violence.

The service was developed during the covid-19 disaster in conjunction with Evelina colleagues.

She also utilised knowledge of legislation pertaining to Looked After Children (LAC), Unaccompanied Asylum-Seeking Children (UASC), mental health, child and adult protection, and equality to advocate for the rights of vulnerable populations, ensuring access to healthcare for every UASC individual, a fundamental right often missed.

Research

Bhavna's research and clinical work demonstrate her commitment to addressing the intersection of race, equality, and mental health. She recognises the importance of considering the socio-cultural context in understanding psychological experiences and advocating for justice and equality.

Her expertise in research methodologies, data analysis, and clinical practice allows Bhavna to contribute valuable insights to the field of psychology and make a meaningful impact on the lives of individuals affected by disasters and systemic inequalities.

Academia

Bhavna has provided teaching on interventions for trauma, self-harm, race, racism, and culture.

Bhavna is a visiting lecturer on the IOPPN doctoral programme in Clinical Psychology. She has previously held the position of visiting lecturer at London Metropolitan University, teaching on the MSc Psychology, Mental Health Working, and BSc Criminology courses.

Bhavna has presented at various conferences for the British Psychological Society, UEL forced Migration conference, Guys and St Thomas Evelina and South London and Maudsley NHS Trust.

Contact

Bhavna holds a commitment to addressing societal challenges in advancing the field of psychology. With a dedication to integrating historical context, evidence-based practices, and a deep understanding of the unique needs of all populations, Bhavna hopes to make a significant impact in Psychology - clinically and socially. Please get in touch for opportunities.

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