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.