Hello!

My name is Manaali Manoharan and I'm so glad you found us!

'Friend of the Mind' was born from the meaning of my name in Sanskrit (Man -'mind' and aali - 'friend of'). You could say I grew into my name and it was meant to be. 

I am an internationally registered Creative Arts Therapist, mental health counsellor and coach and my aim to to help you uncover the best version of yourself.

The arts have always followed me - beginning in my childhood where I used drawing, painting and crafting with unusual materials to help me process big life changes. Over time - I began using it as a tool for self healing and discovered its incredible transformative powers. I completed a foundation course in Expressive therapies (Art, movement and drama therapies) followed by Bachelors in Psychology, Sociology and Economics. Eventually I up-skilled with a Post graduate diploma in Counselling Psychology and a Masters in Mental Health with a specialisation in art therapy. These qualifications supported me with the strong theoretical foundation and practical skills to support other people looking for change and transformation in their journeys. 

My art practice constantly supports me connect with myself and my core values. Having never been a 'professional artist' as such, in my own practice and with the people I support - I emphasise the process of art creation and not the product.

I have worked with a variety of populations from age 3 to senior citizens, refugees, adoescents with complex mental health, college students, etc.