Ummul Kathawalla, PhD, LP

Specialties

• Anxiety & Depression
• Work Stress & Career-Related Concerns
• Perinatal & Maternal Mental Health
• Trauma
• Grief & Loss
• Life Transitions & Identity Development
• Culturally Focused Therapy
• Interpersonal or Relationship Concerns

About Dr. Kathawalla

Dr. Ummul Kathawalla is a licensed clinical psychologist and the founder of Kiram Psychology Services, providing culturally responsive, evidence-based therapy to adults and couples in Massachusetts and Minnesota. She works with individuals navigating anxiety, depression, work and career stress, trauma, grief, and major life transitions, with particular expertise in cultural contexts, identity development, and perinatal and maternal mental health. She works with couples to strengthen open and effective communication, navigate conflict, and deepen understanding, particularly during periods of transition of feeling disconnected. Her approach is warm, collaborative, honest, and deeply attuned to identity, culture, and context.

Populations Served

• Adults (18+)
• Individuals & Couples
• College & Graduate Students
• Healthcare Professionals
• Military Veterans
• Immigrants & Bicultural Individuals
• Women & Mothers

Treatment Approach

Dr. Kathawalla integrates Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and person-centered and relational approaches within a culturally relevant and trauma-informed framework. Therapy focuses on building emotional insight, psychological flexibility, and practical coping strategies while honoring clients’ values, identities, and lived experiences. Her work is collaborative and paced to support meaningful, sustainable change.

Clinical Background & Training

• PhD in Counseling Psychology, University of Minnesota
• Internship: VA Boston Healthcare System
• Postdoctoral Fellowships: VA Bedford Healthcare System; Boston University
• Certifications: Perinatal Mental Health Training (PMH-C Eligible); Primary Care Behavioral Health Credentialed

Personal Note

In addition to being a psychologist, I’m a mother, partner, friend, daughter, sister, outdoor aficionado, traveler, runner, yogi, foodie, concert goer, lifelong learner — and a griever. My life experiences help me deeply appreciate the complex range of emotions we carry on this journey through life. I’m committed to supporting others in navigating life’s ups and downs.

Availability & Logistics

• Availability: Monday–Thursday, 9:00am–5:00pm
• Format: Telehealth
• Insurance: BCBS, Aetna, Boston College Student Health Plan; Out-of-network for all other insurances & superbills provided
• Fee: $275 intake | $250 individual sessions | $325 couples sessions | Sliding scale available based on need
• Licensure: Licensed Psychologist, Massachusetts & Minnesota

Get Started

If you are interested in working with Dr. Kathawalla, you may request a consultation at www.kirampsychology.com or emailing ummul@kirampsychology.com.