Hi, my name is Kirnvir (she/her/hers). Here’s a bit about who I am and the work I do.

I hold a B.A. in Psychology from UC Berkeley and am currently a Clinical Psychology Doctoral Candidate at the Wright Institute. This year, I’m completing my practicum at Sutter Alta Bates Summit Medical Center | Herrick Campus in Berkeley, where I work with people experiencing psychiatric crises.

Before entering the clinical field, I worked in the legal world supporting survivors of domestic and political violence. That experience gave me a close look at how power operates. Who it protects, fails, and how systems can retraumatize people in need of support. I became especially interested in how both institutions and communities determine how and who is seen, accepted, or supported and who is excluded or treated as a threat. These dynamics often leave people feeling isolated, misunderstood, or unsafe in their own bodies and relationships. That’s what first drew me to working with individuals navigating the emotional weight of trauma, depression, anxiety, and disconnection.

This lens continues to guide my clinical work. I’m especially attuned to people who have had to figure things out alone, often while holding things together for others.

I see resilience as a strength, but never as a reason to go without care.

I'm also attuned to spaces where vulnerability is often dismissed. Like among men.

Outside of session, I volunteer at the East Bay SPCA canine unit where I care for dogs who haven’t always had stable or consistent care. Being around them pulls me out of my head and into the moment. Their unpredictability and need for connection reminds me to stay grounded and responsive. At home, my orange tabby, Little Lee, does the same. His late-night zoomies and silly personality keep me playful and present.

I also turn to movement and music to reconnect with myself. Biking and running give me a sense of release, while music helps me feel emotions that can at times, be hard to name.