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In this eye-opening episode, Maria talks with Dr. Neeru Bakshi, a psychiatrist who's shaking things up in mental healthcare. Neeru, a South Asian woman, works in a field dominated by Western viewpoints. She offers insights on why diverse voices in leadership roles matter for mental health care.

Neeru shares stories of questioning the system, from asking why certain patients were turned away to challenging culturally limited approaches to treatment. Her candid observations reveal how even well-intentioned care can miss the mark when cultural context is overlooked.

This episode offers real hope for change beyond spotlighting the cracks in the system.

Neeru walks us through practical ways to transform mental healthcare, from diversifying research participants to rethinking education for future practitioners. For anyone who cares about honest storytelling and inclusive healing spaces, this conversation demonstrates how bringing different perspectives to the table creates care where folks feel truly understood and respected.

About Dr. Neeru Bakshi

Neeru Bakshi is a board-certified psychiatrist with expertise and passion in antiracist mental health care and eating disorders. Dr. Neeru Bakshi has dedicated her career to addressing the amplified stigma and barriers to care that exist within the South Asian community. Her mission is to center women of color in leadership and create more accessible, culturally responsive mental healthcare.

Connect with Dr. Neeru Bakshi

LinkedIn | Instagram | Threads

About Host Maria Bryan

Maria Bryan is a trauma-informed storytelling trainer. She helps nonprofit leaders tell powerful and impactful stories that resist harm. Maria has over fifteen years in marketing communications in the public sector. She has a Master’s Degree in Public Administration, a Bachelor’s Degree in Journalism, and is professionally certified in Trauma & Resilience, Trauma-Informed Space Holding, Trauma-Informed Coaching, and Somatic Embodiment & Regulation. Maria is a firm believer that storytellers make the world a healthier, safer, cleaner, and happier place.

Connect with Maria

Speaking & Training | LinkedIn | Email