Making Mental Health Support More Accessible for the Sikh Community
Illustration by thequotepotpourri
The Sikh Counselling Directory was founded by Raj Chima in loving memory of her mother
— a woman whose kindness, resilience, and unwavering faith continue to guide her every
day. She embodied Seva (selfless service), Daya (compassion), and Sangat (community
support), values that shaped both her life and this platform.
In 2019, Raj’s world shattered. Losing her mother was a pain she couldn’t comprehend.
Grief, depression, and anxiety consumed her. She couldn’t leave her home. She couldn’t see a
way forward. Well-meaning words like “you have to be strong” or “it was Waheguru’s will”
didn’t help. No one spoke about the deep wounds of losing a parent — the inner child
screaming for the mother who was no longer there.
As a qualified social worker, Raj had supported others, but nothing prepared her for this level
of loss. In desperation, she enrolled in a counselling course to understand her own pain. What
started as a search for healing became her calling. She went on to become an Accredited CBT
Psychotherapist and Clinical Supervisor, and from that journey, Sikh Counselling was born.
"This platform is not just a directory, it is a legacy of love, care, and the belief that everyone deserves support. I dedicate this work to my beloved mother, whose spirit of compassion continues to guide me. May this platform serve as a path to healing for others, just as she would have wanted." - Raj Chima
A Space for Sikhs to Find Support
Mental health is both clinical and deeply personal, shaped by culture, faith, and community values. At Sikh Counselling, we combine scientifically validated psychology with a culturally informed perspective, ensuring that Sikhs receive support that reflects their lived experiences.
Our understanding of mental health conditions is based on the DSM-5, the globally recognised standard for diagnosis and treatment. However, we recognise that mental health within the Sikh and Punjabi community is shaped by stigma, family expectations, and faith-based perspectives, which can make seeking support more challenging.
What Makes Our Approach Unique?
Scientifically Accurate
We use clinically validated information to ensure professional and evidence-based guidance.
Culturally Sensitive Therapy
We recognise how mental health is viewed within the Sikh and Punjabi community, addressing stigma, family expectations, and faith-based concerns that often prevent people from seeking help.
Faith-Based Therapy for Sikhs
All therapists are verified, ensuring a safe and professional space for both clients and practitioners.
Practical & Accessible
We break down complex psychological terms into clear, easy-to-understand explanations, making mental well-being approachable for everyone.
Breaking the Silence
Many Sikhs suffer in silence due to cultural taboos around mental health. Our platform exists to change the conversation, making support accessible without judgment.
Giving Back to the Sikh Community
At Sikh Counselling, we believe that mental health support should be accessible to everyone. That’s why along with providing affordable therapy for South Asian communities, we reinvest into the community through education, workshops, and direct support initiatives.
10% of all membership fees go toward funding mental health workshops for children and young people in Gurdwaras
We collaborate with local Sikh organisations and charities to provide community-based mental health support
where they are needed most.
We are committed to breaking stigma around mental health by providing free mental health resources.
