NIA THAVAPALAN
EDUCATIONAL AND DEVELOPMENTAL PSYCHOLOGIST, CO-FOUNDER OF 'THE NEST'
Nia is a passionate and creative practitioner with over a decade of experience working in not-for-profit organisations, educational settings, paediatric multidisciplinary teams and private practice. She adopts a person-centred, strength-based approach, tailoring her work to each young person's needs, interests, and personality. Nia also collaborates closely with parents, school personnel, and multidisciplinary teams to tailor evidence-based support to help young people function to their fullest potential.
Nia uses a range of evidence-based therapeutic frameworks, including Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Solution-Focused Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Play-Based Therapy. Nia also ensures to take a neuro-affirming approach, ensuring to create an environment where all young people feel valued, understood, and empowered to thrive.
In addition to her therapeutic work, Nia has a strong interest in assessment. Through comprehensive assessments, she aims to build a holistic understanding of young people by recognising and celebrating their strengths, identifying evidence based strategies to support their needs, and empowering them to flourish as their true authentic selves.
Beyond work, Nia enjoys spending quality time with her family and friends, staying active, and seeking adrenaline-filled adventures. With a passion for travel, she dreams of continuing to travel the world and share these experiences with her son.