At Asha, we provide culturally-responsive mental health care for all people, especially those in marginalized communities — BIPOC, immigrant, LGBTQ+, and disabled folks. We celebrate the strengths, values, and context that come with being members of such communities, while at the same time recognizing how dealing with micro- and macro-aggressions and additional roadblocks can negatively impact mental health. We take a social justice-informed approach to your care. We respect and value different life experiences, perspectives, identities, and family dynamics, and listen to your unique needs to develop goals tailored to you. We will never diminish your feelings or make assumptions about you and will instead work to provide you with the appropriate tools to help you overcome these challenges, recognize your worth — and regain hope.
Meet Priyanka Rao, PsyD, LP
Hi, I’m so glad you’re here.
I am the daughter (she/her) of Indian immigrants and a first generation American. My experiences growing up straddling two wildly different cultures, working on integrating the two sides of myself, heavily influences how I view others and the importance of understanding and valuing cultural backgrounds in the therapeutic space. Whether you too are the child of immigrants, come from a family system that has values that differ from those of your friends’ families, or hold other identities that are not shared by the majority population around you, I work to understand your unique experiences, values, goals, and hopes to help you build the life you want.
As a Licensed Psychologist, I approach my clients with empathy and curiosity, working to understand your culture and lived experience. Whether you’re dealing with interpersonal relationship issues, battling anxiety, or working through trauma, we’ll work together to help you learn more about yourself, become more accepting of your authentic identity, and pursue the changes you want to make. I will challenge you and support you, all with a good dose of humor (and the occasional curse word). Together, we’ll work to calm your inner critic and discover healthier ways to manage your feelings.
Outside of work, I am a mother, wife, and dog lover. I enjoy reading whenever I can (especially thrillers and romance), watch more TV than I should, love to try new foods, and will never turn down ice cream.
GET TO KNOW ME
Favorite movie
You’ve got mail
In session, you’ll find that I always
Have a cup of coffee, no matter the time of day
Something that surprises most people about me
I’m fluent in French and lived in France for a year
The book I recommend to every client
The Body Keeps Score
Favorite self-care activity
Reading a novel
On the weekend, you’ll find me…
enjoying brunch and playing with my little ones
Education & Credentials
I have several years experience working in private practice and university counseling centers with specialties in relational issues, identity development, navigating life transitions, and mood disorders. I also have experience in clinical leadership and have served as clinical manager, assistant clinical director, clinical director, and chief clinical officer for various therapy practices.
Minnesota Licensed Psychologist: LP6360
PsyPact Licensed Psychologist: APIT Number 14132
Doctor of Psychology in Clinical Psychology, Adler University, 2017
BA in Psychology & French, University of Virginia, 2011